Library Security
by Harley Brooks
I recently attended a SOLINET workshop in Columbia SC dealing with Library Security.   If I may I would like to give the highlights of the discussion that day which was led by the person in charge of  security for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg County Public Library.

The essential element of a security program for libraries should be insuring that "Libraries are used as libraries."  A library needs to have:

1.  A solid program
2.  Right people doing the job
3.  Train People properly
4.  Fair and enforcable rules
5.  Give people benefit of doubt
6.  Treat everyone fairly

Discussion for the day dealt with the application of the principles listed above.  Heavily stressed was the need for continuous training for all library personnel, both staff and student personnel, so that any situations could be dealt with properly.   Procedures established should not be static, but continually adapted to meet all of the situations that might arise.

Recommendations dealing with the implementation of a security program for RBD and the branches are being prepared, with a  proposal for a  program available soon.
 
  To Next Article
  Back to Table of Contents