Disaster Assistance

The California Preservation Program is available to provide disaster assistance to libraries, archives, historical societies and cultural institutions. Institutions are encouraged to call for assistance as soon as possible. The emergency toll-free number 888-905-7737 will connect you with a disaster response specialist. Phone consultation is provided at no charge. If phone consultation is not sufficient, on-site assistance can be arranged at minimal or no charge.

Another source of assistance can be your local Regional Disaster Response Network. Many of these networks stock supplies and have received training on disaster plans and recovery.

To prepare your library for emergency situations, take the following actions. Use the tools provided by the Emergency Preparedness and Response in the Information Resources section of this website. :

• Write or update a disaster plan that includes response for collections
• Make sure all staff know the first steps to take when an emergency arises
• Compile an up-to-date telephone list for staff, including home and cell numbers
• Be prepared to handle the most likely threats, based on the past history of the building and location
• Train staff in-house or by having them attend a disaster preparedness workshop

To become better prepared and to train staff, take advantage of the Protecting Library Collections: Emergency Preparedness, Response & Recovery workshop offered by the California Preservation Program.

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