Preservation, Conservation and Safety of Library Materials: An Appraisal on Some Selected Special Libraries in Kaduna Metropolis

Abstract

Preservation and conservation of library materials has become a global phenomenon to which libraries must strongly respond to in order to meet the information needs of their clientele. This study was conducted to assess the preservation, conservation and safety of library materials in some selected special libraries in Kaduna metropolis. To achieve the objectives of the study, five research questions were constructed. The study adopted Survey research method. The population of the study was the professional librarians from the selected special libraries. Structured questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive tables. The result of the study revealed that the major causes of deterioration in the libraries studied were environmental factors and human activitiesamong others. The study equally revealed that the major techniques used were lamination, binding, provision of adequate security systems to prevent theŌ and use of insecticide etc. The study showed that preservation policies exist in the libraries. The study identified the major constraints to effective preservation of materials as inadequate funding, inadequate infrastructure, inadequate power supply etc. In line with findings, recommendations were made. The study concludes that the special libraries in Kaduna metropolis are yet to fully embrace technological innovations for the preservation, conservation and security of library materials.