NCJ Number
88541
Journal
Library and Archival Security Volume: 4 Issue: 4 Dated: (1982) Pages: 1-11
Date Published
1982
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Findings from a survey of 406 public libraries in 12 eastern States indicate the frequency of 18 different types of library-related crime and the disruption caused by such crimes.
Abstract
The survey sought to determine how the presence of criminal behavior affected the library and its patrons, what deterrent action was taken, and the cost of such action to the library. The most common type of vandalism was intentional book damage. Vandalism outside the building was reported in 60 percent of the cases and was chronic in 10 percent. Inside vandalism was found in over half of the libraries. Book theft was the most common and consistent problem measured by the survey. A total of 84 percent of the responding libraries had experienced at least one episode (which can include one or many volumes). Verbal abuse to the staff was a problem in nearly 50 percent of the libraries. In response to these and other crime problems, libraries changed their operating hours, called for police, and had to operate without some of their normal equipment. In terms of dollar losses, 3 percent reported losses over $10,000; one-third had losses of less than $250; one-third had losses between $250 and $1000; 13 percent had losses between $1,000 and $2,500; and 14 percent suffered losses over $2,500. Common types of security measures used included security locks on all doors, police patrol coverage, smoke detectors, and a locked storage room. Only 10 percent of the libraries had book detection systems. Tables and nine references are supplied.