Security for Libraries in the Digital Networked Environment

Abstract

Libraries are using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for their operations and services by making huge investments and spending vast amounts of staff time for the selection, acquisition, retrieval, and dissemination of digital information. But the proliferation of computers, widespread acceptance of computer networks, explosive growth of Internet, increased reliance on electronic databases and the move from dedicated mainframe environments to client-server environments make libraries vulnerable to security threats. The moment user connects the computer to a Network or Internet, is the moment that the security of data has been compromised. Even the most secure systems, shepherded by the most intelligent and able system administrators, and employing the most up-to-date, tested software available are at risk every day. It is very essential to take all measures to protect the ICT infrastructure from security threats. However, libraries are lagging behind in realizing the need to protect their ICT resources and services from misuse, damage, theft, sabotage, mistake, etc. This paper deals with the issues related to the security of libraries in the present digital networked environment and makes recommendations for protecting ICT resources and services. The paper discusses security risks, strategies for security, security policy, personnel security, physical security, software security, network security, Internet security, access control, protection against computer viruses, protection of public terminals and backup information. This paper also discusses the need for professional assignments for library security and the importance of security training for library professionals.