Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
Spring 2015
Abstract
While book theft and vandalism in public and academic libraries, as well as archives and special collections, are not considered a modern problem, they have, in recent years, become a matter of increasing concern to these institutions. Easy access to materials housed in multi-story libraries difficult to effectively supervise; the online presence of archives and special collections detailing the contents of their collections to attract researchers and visitors; and a seemingly growing number of persons willing to express their personal convictions and beliefs by removing or destroying items from public and private collections, are among the primary reasons for the ongoing loss of materials.
This research paper examines the motives behind book theft and vandalism, summarizes existing security measures, and offers suggestions for theft and vandalism prevention.