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.