ABSTRACT
Protecting the collections may be seen as the highest priority in many libraries where they are the most expensive resource in terms of accumulated value and replacement cost. Many libraries have successfully installed one of the well established electronic book detection systems on the market and there can be little doubt that a well managed and properly maintained detection system effectively reduces the loss of books and other materials. In libraries with full circulating systems, readers with correctly issued books can move freely in and out of the library and only those in possession of an unissued volume will set off the alarm and require attention by a member of staff. The detection systems simply detect unissued books and normally respond by activating an alarm and temporarily locking a gate or door, depending on the configuration selected for the circumstances of the particular library.
