Collection Security in Selected Private University Libraries in Ghana
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Date
2020-11
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Ghana
Abstract
Collection is an important component of the library as it is the base upon which a library adds
value and provides essential services to its users. Collection security is designed in order to
protect library collections against unauthorized access. The study sought to identify collection
security issues, find out the existing security threats, determine staff and user awareness of
security, verify if there was a collection security policy and examine the collection security
measures in place. The study was guided by the Collection Security Management Model. The
study employed an exploratory case study to help in the better understanding of the topic
under investigation. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from a sample size
of 297 respondents. In addition, thirteen (13) library staff from Valley View University and
Ghana Technology University College, now Ghana Communication Technology University
were interviewed. The study found that the two libraries had security problems caused by
lack of awareness of rules and regulations, lack of proper orientation to users on the use of
the library collection, insufficient library collection for users, ignorance and lack of adequate
punishment to serve as a deterrent to others and self-interest. Further, the study found a low
level of awareness of security in the two libraries due to lack of training of staff and
orientation for users. More also, the research showed that there was a functional collection
security policy, but the issue was in relation to adhering to the policy. Finally, the research
found that users were aware of human and technological measures put in place by both
Valley View and Ghana Communication Technology Universities. It was recommended that
the two libraries should provide adequate staff training. In addition, they should engage in
orientation and awareness creation programmes for users and staff. The two libraries must
adopt effective collection security policies, provision of physical and technological security
systems and ensure the collective responsibility of all stakeholders.
Description
MPhil. Information Studies
Keywords
Library, Private University, Ghana, Security, Collection Security Management