Library Crimes among Users of Library Resources in University Libraries, Nigeria

Abstract

This research is aimed at Library Crimes among Users of Library Resources in University Libraries in Nigeria. Descriptive survey and simple linear and multiple correlational research designs were adopted. A 4-point rating scale was used to collect data from a sample size of 394 drawn from 33,159 population. The sample size was determined using Krecjie and Morgan’s table for determining sample size while proportionate sampling technique was applied to determine the individual student respondents of each of the schools. The Universities studied are Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Delta State University, Abraka, Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozor, Federal University of Technology, Owerri Imo State University, Owerri, Madonna University, Okija, Paul University Awka, Chukwuemeka Odiumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to obtain means and coefficient of correlation for answering research. Findings show among others that, the crime practices in university libraries studied is not significantly carried out above average rating; the measure of patrons’ utilization of the library resources in universities studied is not significantly above average rating; and there is a very high and significant relationship among theft, mutilation, vandalism, mis-shelving of books and staff assault on one hand and the patrons’ use of the library resources. The researcher made some recommendations on the study.

Library resources constraints, frustration, and user behavior: An empirical library operations study

“…The results show that the frustration resulting from the textbook shortage in university libraries compels some students to shred relevant book portions. Indeed, scholars like Sharma (2023) and Nzewi (2023) noted that mutilation is a widespread practice in university libraries. They will steal or shred some pages if they cannot hide or steal the entire book.…”

“…The continual shredding of pages of a particular book leads to eroding the book. Specifically, Nzewi (2023) and Sharma (2023) noted this harmful act of page shredding in university libraries leads to the destruction of knowledge. This is because once a page is mutilated, it distorts the logic or the pattern of knowledge in a book, further worsening library resource constraints.…”

“…Precisely, the study's results suggest that the lack of the requisite number of textbooks makes students steal the few copies that may be available. Indeed, Usman (2013) and Ferrinho et al (2004) Specifically, Nzewi (2023) and Sharma (2023) noted this harmful act of page shredding in university libraries leads to the destruction of knowledge. This is because once a page is mutilated, it distorts the logic or the pattern of knowledge in a book, further worsening library resource constraints.…”