Moving library collections during installation of fire equipment

Jennifer Jarvis <jjarvis9<-at->jhu<.>edu> writes

>Johns Hopkins University is currently in the final planning stages
>of installing a comprehensive fire detection and water-based
>suppression system at the Evergreen Museum and Library ...
>...
>... We would be very grateful if any of you have gone through
>similar renovations, if you could share your experiences, especially
>regarding the decision to move collections or protect them in-situ.

Many conservators are aware of the fact that some disasters occur
during construction and/or renovation.  As an example, in our area,
the American Philatelic Society was renovating their space that
included repairing the roof.  During heavy rains earlier this year,
water leaked on their rare book collections as well as on thousands
of additional items.  In another case, when steam pipes were being
cleaned in our library, a joint failed that resulted in 20,000 books
being sprayed with an acidic cleaning solution.

I would highly recommend that you move the collection to a more
secure location until the work is completed.  Even if there were
tarps over everything, a ladder or pipe might fall and cause
physical damage.  At the same time, the tarps could trap moisture
that could cause mold during construction.  The safest is to move
the collection.  At the same time, this would allow you an
opportunity to clean and examine the treasures.

I look forward to reading what others say, as well as to hear your
final decision.

William Minter
Senior Book Conservator
Preservation, Conservation and Digitization Department
The Pennsylvania State University Libraries
402 Pattee Library
University Park PA 16802
814-863-2885


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 30:12
                 Distributed: Saturday, August 6, 2016
                       Message Id: cdl-30-12-004
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