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Protecting Library & Archive Collections:
Disaster Preparedness, Response & Recovery


The “Protecting Library & Archive Collections” workshops are presented in a 2-part sequence to produce the following outcomes for disaster preparedness activities:
  • Complete a disaster plan by the end of Part 2.
  • Learn how to train staff to implement your plan effectively.
  • Set pre- and post-disaster action priorities for your collections.
  • Learn how to use practical decision-making skills during an emergency.
  • Experience salvage procedures for books, documents, and non-print media.

The workshop days are scheduled 5-10 weeks apart. Participants will prepare short assignments prior to the first session; between sessions, they will undertake additional assignments resulting in a completed disaster plan at the end of Part 2. Upon completion, the institution will be invited to join an informal network of WESTPAS trained personnel to provide mutual aid in the event of emergencies involving collections in the region.

Who should attend:    Administrators and staff responsible for emergency preparedness, response and decision-making, in all types of libraries and archives.  By registering for the workshop, the institution commits to supporting the attendee(s) to achieve the workshop's disaster preparedness goals. When possible, please send two attendees from a library or archive so they can work together on the disaster preparedness activities.

Cost:    No charge to the institution.  Funding provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities and co-sponsored by the Oregon State Library.

Course locations and dates – see the WESTPAS schedule of workshops