When library materials get wet, TIME IS CRITICAL if they are to be saved. There is a relatively small window of opportunity available for salvage before damage sets in. You will need:
- an understanding of the appropriate procedures to follow
- supplies for packing, moving, drying, etc.
- enough people to get the job done as quickly as possible
- trained staff who are able to train volunteers
Try to get assistance from a conservator or someone with experience in library disasters as soon as possible.
Note: What follows are some brief notes on salvage-- see the bibliography for sources of more complete information. This sheet is intended for general reference only and is not a complete guide.
Books: Freeze or dry wet books and papers within 48 hours to minimize damage. Don't squeeze wet books or try to straighten the text blocks if they seem twisted. Just handle each book carefully and, if too wet or too numerous to air-dry, pack for freezing. Pack books spine down only one layer deep in boxes; try to loosely wrap every other book in waxed paper or freezer paper so that they don't stick together. Get them to a freezer immediately.
Unbound papers: Don't try to separate wet, single sheets as they will tear easily. Just interleave groups of paper with waxed paper or freezer paper and freeze as soon as possible.
Photographs: Don't freeze photos unless you have no other alternative, because freezing may damage the surfaces of the photos.
Emergency Photo Recovery Service-- we plan on Document Reprocessors, who says:
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- Keep all damaged materials cold and wet. Never let them dry out.
- Rinse off heavy mud or particulate dirt deposits with clean, cold water.
- Place wet items and their ID in a plastic bag, seal tightly and keep cold.
Microfilm and microfiche: Submerge microfilm in cold, running water and send to a reprocessing center within 72 hours to have rewashed and dried; keep wet. You can air dry fiche.
Magnetic tape: Remove from containers, but don't lose labelling information. Disinfect containers and let dry completely. Air dry tapes, or send for professional cleaning.
Computer disks: Contact a data recovery expert.
CDs: Clean with a dry, lint-free cloth, preferably cotton, moving the cloth from the center of the disc to the outside edge. If the containers have gotten wet or otherwise damaged, clean them and/or replace them. Disinfect cases if necessary, and dry thoroughly before putting discs into thatm.
Bottom line:
- save high priority materials
- know how to recognize when materials are unsalvageable so that time isn't wasted on unimportant or unsalvageable materials.
C. Tancin, "Outwitting Calamity." Oct. 16, 1998.