NCJ Number
87835
Date Published
1983
Length
18 pages
Annotation
Security for museum libraries should include procedures for staff and patron access to collections, the enactment of protective legislation, special security procedures for valuable documents, and fire protection.
Abstract
Screening procedures should ensure the selection of employees of the highest integrity. Employee training should include instruction in the implementation of security procedures, including the techniques of observation. A security procedure for patron access to the library collections might include patrons' reading and signing a statement of library rules and regulations. Further, the patron should complete a researcher registration card, listing name, address, companies or institutions represented, and research topics. Card information should be checked against a suitable form of patron identification. Because of the frequent use of false identification by thieves, the use of photographic identification cards or the use of inkless thumbprinting may be used. In the area of protective legislation, the Virginia Library Act of 1975 merits careful attention. It declares the willful concealment of library materials to be a separate and distinct crime, and the concealment of such materials is prima-facie evidence of intent to commit larceny. The law also provides that a library employee is not subject to civil prosecution for the detention or false arrest of a patron when 'probable cause' exists. Items of high market value should be separated from the general collection, and reproductions should be used for patrons whenever possible. In ensuring fire protection for museum libraries, attention should be given to the fireproofing of the exterior and interior of the building and the storing of documents so as to reduce the likelihood of a fire spreading. Attention must be given to the provision of fire suppression equipment, staff training for fire emergencies, and protection from water damage in case of fire.