Security for Libraries in the Digital Networked Environment
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Date
2005-02-02
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Publisher
INFLIBNET Centre
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.
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Keywords
Security Risks, Security Policy, Internet Security, Access Control, Network Security