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Recovering Personal Collections

Checklist for first response to an emergency affecting materials not owned by the Harvard Libraries.

It is important to respond quickly when books, papers, photographs, films, and audiovisual media are damaged. Immediate action taken during the first 24 hours makes it more likely that damaged items can be salvaged. In the event of an emergency that threatens materials typical of those found in libraries, take the following steps:

Step 1 – Make everyone safe.

Take appropriate measures to protect the lives and health of everyone involved. For information about safety during emergencies, see the American Red Cross web page Recover after a Disaster.

Step 2 – Notify appropriate emergency response personnel.

Depending upon the type of emergency, call the designated emergency response agencies for assistance, e.g., fire department, police department, EMTs.

Step 3 – Make a rapid assessment of the emergency situation.

If possible and safe to do so, assess the source of the danger to "library materials" and the extent of the damage.

Step 4 – Protect the "library materials" from further damage.

If possible and safe to do so, take appropriate steps to protect the "library materials," e.g., cover them with plastic sheeting or move them to a safe location. Remove the threat, e.g., repair the plumbing leak.

Step 5 – Protect the "library materials" from further damage.

If possible:

  • Lower temperature below 65 degrees F
  • Lower relative humidity below 35%
  • Move air gently through affected areas to forestall a mold outbreak
  • If mold is present, seek professional help for abatement

Step 6 – Seek professional advice about salvaging the items involved.

Northeast United States

Mid-Atlantic United States

Southeast United States

Mid-Western United States

Southwestern United States

Western United States

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Last modified on June 13, 2007