Investigating Ineffectiveness of Electronic Security Systems in Safeguarding Library Materials at Mzumbe University Library

The study surveyed the challenges facing Mzumbe University Library in using ESSs with three specific objectives: to analyze the types of ESSs used at MU, evaluate the effectiveness of ESSs, and identify challenges facing MU Library in using ESSs. The study adopted qualitative and quantitative data collection approaches, and the questionnaire guide was disseminated to 41 library staff members. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select respondents. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 22 program version 20 and Microsoft Excel. The result of the study shows that there are three types of ESSs used at MU library: Theft detection, smoke detection, and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. Also, the study identifies the challenges facing Mzumbe University Library in operating ESS which, are personal, technical, management, and financial factors. The study recommended that the university management should consider the allocation of enough funds for the system maintenance, repair, and facilitating training programs for library staff concerning ESSs. In addition, the study also recommended the enforcement of policies showing a clear penalty for anyone found guilty of theft or damage of any library material even if he/she is a library staff.