Abstract:
The study sought to establish and analyse university students’ perceptions of potential risk of disasters facing state
university libraries in Zimbabwe and related disaster intervention strategies. The study was prompted by media and
research reports of library disasters that have occurred recently locally and regionally. The Chaos Theory Framework by
Frederick (1998) which underpinned the study, is premised on the unpredictability of nature, the resultant chaos and the
lesson to expect the unexpected. Literature related to the threats faced by state University libraries was reviewed. The
study adopted a case study design to collect data, from a purposive sample of thirty-two students, using questionnaires
and semi-structured interview schedules. Qualitative data analysis was done using inferential statistics and Microsoft
Excel tools. The findings established that the students identified potential risk and perceived that the university under
study was ill-prepared to manage library disasters since it lacked enough basic equipment such as fire- extinguishers,
marked exit points, less knowledgeable students, as a resource towards effective disaster preparedness and management
of library disasters. The study recommends an overhaul of attitudes by management towards library disaster
management by developing a localised disaster management policy, with adequate funding being made available for
implementing risk reduction strategies, including the education and training of students and library staff. The suggested
risk reduction interventions also targeted infrastructure development in such areas as ventilation, lighting, repairs and
maintenance of electricity supply points to computer equipment as well as the strategic positioning of firefighting
equipment.
