Post-Irene Message for Libraries

Greetings,

The Department of Libraries is closed today but DOL staff members are calling public libraries in the southern/central part of the state to assess damage. In some cases phone or internet service is not available.

If you have information to report about the status of your library (public/school/academic), please send that info to me at the email address below. We are compiling a spreadsheet of information about libraries. I am working from home today and you can also reach me via my cell phone at: 802-318-7889. We expect to be back in our offices tomorrow. Call us if you need any assistance or information.

At this point we know about significant flooding /damage in just one public library: West Hartford Public Library

There may be others.

Information for libraries who have damage/flooding:

1.    Under FEMA rules, public libraries are now considered essential and are eligible for temporary facilities. There may be other FEMA assistance available.

2.    For libraries with special collections, local history, and other important/unique content that  is compromised by water/mud, it is important to act quickly to save materials. You will also need to assess damage to other parts of your library collection and facility and come up with a plan. Call DOL if we can be of assistance.

Call: Northeast Document Conservation Center Disaster Assistance Hotline: 978-470-1010 http://www.nedcc.org/disaster/disaster.php

Note: They will also accept calls from the public. NEDCC suggests that libraries tell people with water damage who HAVE electricity to wrap books in wax paper and put them in a freezer and then phone the NEDCC. (or just give patrons the number so they can ask questions directly.)

Call:  American Institute for Conservation/Collections Emergency Response Team

24-hour assistance number at 202.661.8068 for advice by phone and to arrange for a team to come the site for damage assessment and salvage organization. www.conservation-us.org/disaster

Note: you can also direct the public to this assistance hotline.

Regards,
Marty
_________________________

Martha Reid
State Librarian
Vermont Department of Libraries
109 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05609-0601
Tel: (802) 828-3265
Fax: (802) 828-2199
martha.reid@state.vt.us
Website: http://libraries.vermont.gov/