Technology Driven Security Systems for Libraries

摘要

This paper highlights the need for implementing better security policies for curbing any misuse of library materials, since libraries conserve and preserve the knowledge base for its patrons. Not only are materials often "unintentionally removed" from libraries; materials taken out by accident are rarely returned, leaving them out of bounds far genuine users. Studies have repeatedly proved that recruiting personnel for security purposes is not an advantageous proposition since besides being costly, it is not hundred percent foolproof due to human error. Thus the most widespread response to theft and mutilation of library materials among libraries has been the installation of an automatic security system. An automatic security system serves three main purposes, viz., acting as a deterrent, offering ready detection of intrusion, and notifying appropriate personnel making apprehension of the intruder possible. An electronic security system includes sensors, a control panel to interpret the report from the sensors and to decide whether or not to activate the reporting devices, and reporting devices. The most popular tag and alarm based security system technologies used in a majority of modern libraries such as Electromagnetic (EM), Radio Frequency (RF), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Acousto-Magnetic (AM) technologies are presented with their basic principles, implementation in libraries along with benefits and limitations. A comparison of these technologies and list of major producers are presented in tabular format along with different problems and prospects. Any form of technology can effectively serve its purpose only in a broad perspective of administrative, legal, and social practices. Also there are at present no guarantees regarding consistency of services, compatibility of systems, or continuing support by vendors. Thus libraries must consider their ultimate role as service institutions serving the unique needs of the user which calls for broad evaluation of technical, human and financial issues before deciding on the best possible security option.