GUIDELINES FOR SECURING LIBRARY MATERIALS AT KAKUNGULU MEMORIAL SCHOOL

Description

The aim of the project is to develop guidelines for securing library materials for Kakungulu Memorial School Library to ensure safety of information resources. The objectives of the study were to; examine the types of library materials that are available in Kakungulu Memorial School Library, establish the current methods used in providing security to library materials in Kakungulu Memorial School Library, identify the challenges involved in security of information materials in Kakungulu Memorial School Library and develop guidelines for improving the security of library materials in Kakungulu Memorial School Library. The study used a case study research design while adopting both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The researcher purposively selected 5 librarians who are responsible with the security of the information materials who participated in the study. Interviews and observations were used to collect the information for the study. The study established that the different information resources in Kakungulu Memorial School Library include; text books, magazines, newspapers, reports, journals. The major threats to these information resources were; theft of library materials, vandalism, biological agents (insects), dust and dirty, and non-return of materials. The guidelines suggested to improve the security of library materials at Kakungulu Memorial School Library were; using a CCTV and security personnel, dropping bags at entrance, employing personnel moving around in the library, proper checking of bags and staff going round, security men to main the entrance, installation of book detectors and security alarm, more multiple copies of textbook, photocopy machine, and improved cleanliness in the library. The study concluded that there was a need to develop guidelines for enhancing the security of library materials at Kakungulu Memorial School to support the librarians in ensuring security for the information resources. The study recommended the staff for Kakungulu Memorial School Library to adopt the proposed guideline for improving security of library materials at Kakungulu Memorial School Library.