The Improvement of Library Security

RRHAPS THE BEST wAY TO BEGIN a discussion of library security is to sum: marize a theft that took place at a major state library. The case is instructive because it illustrates a number of important aspects of the problems of library security. By all reasonable standards this particular state library had a good security system. At the time of the theft there was one large archives reference room with public access through a single entrance, and an archivist was on duty in the room at all times during the day. Two stack attendants were also assigned to the area so that the professional staff did not have to leave the room. Patrons were asked to complete a registration card and provide identification; on .subsequent days returning visitors were asked to sign in before beginning their day's work. Access to the stacks was not permitted to visitors. Yet despite these meas'!lres one man, acting alone, apparently stole at least 115 documents valued at $20,000. One interesting facet of the case concerns the contraband ·itself. Even though the stolen documents were letters from su·ch