EXPLORING USER PERCEPTIONS OF BOOK THEFT AND MUTILATION: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Libraries serve as organized repositories of knowledge and resources, offering access to a wide range of materials in various formats to a defined community. This paper delves into the concept of libraries, emphasizing their role in providing both physical and digital resources to users. Libraries, whether physical structures or virtual spaces, house an array of materials, including books, periodicals, digital media, and more, catering to diverse information needs. The historical roots of the term "library" can be traced to Latin and Greek origins, with derivatives like "bibliothèque" in French, symbolizing the idea of a bookcase and library in modern languages. One of the challenges libraries face is the intentional damage, defacement, or theft of materials, known as mutilation. Mutilation encompasses acts such as tearing covers and pages, cutting out content, and removing labels or bookplates, all of which deplete library resources. The motives behind such actions vary, ranging from a sense of entitlement to financial reasons or disagreements with the library's collection choices, and even malicious intent. This paper presents a case study focused on user attitudes toward book theft and mutilation within a management college library, shedding light on the perceptions and behaviors surrounding these issues.