[PADG:1248] Fwd: Food and Drinks in Library stacks

[Eric Shoaf <Eric_Shoaf@xxxxxxxxx>]

>Mr. Rekrut writes:
>An archives within a university library has asked me to post this enquiry:
>The library director has claimed that there is a trend in libraries toward
>allowing food and drinks in stack areas.  This seems so contrary to most
>preservation thinking that it's hard to believe.  The archives continues to
>prohibit food and drinks, but is naturally concerned about the increased
>risk of pest infestation (it doesn't sound like pest management has been
>increased in conjunction with the change in policy) from the surrounding
>stacks.  Is this a trend in fact? Has anyone else run into this?
>Please feel free to respond to me off the List.  Thank you.


I believe this matter is well worth discussion on the list, if only because 
food and drink policies have been a thorn in the side of preservation staff 
for so long.  The trend to easing restrictions on food and drink in 
libraries and addition of cafes is real.  I believe it comes from libraries 
becoming more responsive to their users' needs in general, and to their 
comfort needs in particular.  As libraries face increasing competition from 
other information providers, meeting user needs is primary in shaping the 
library's mission and strategic vision.

Although on its face, allowing food and drink in the library can be 
perceived as counter to the needs of preservation, the manner in which it 
is done is important.  Here at Brown our decision to allow beverages in the 
library (including stack areas) was tied to the important concept of 
personal responsibility. Our policy calls for use of containers with closed 
lids or cups with "slow-leak" tops.  Most vendors have moved to bottles 
with screw caps for single serving beverages whether it be soda, juice, or 
water.  And so-called "travel mugs" with tight fitting caps control spills.

In Summer 1999 we changed our food and drink policy here at Brown to allow 
beverages in appropriate containers in the library (but not food).  We felt 
that encouraging responsibility on the part of our users would help them to 
develop a more protective approach to library materials.  At the same time, 
we created cafes in two of our largest libraries complete with seating 
areas.  These have been well received by our users.  We do not have 
problems with food in our stacks or study areas, our users willingly abide 
by our beverages in closed container policy, and the cafe area is cleaned 
daily so that insect or rodents are not a problem.

We were able to use the change as a promotional tool for library 
preservation.  We had our own "travel mug" made which features the library 
logo on one side and a preservation motto on the other.  During freshman 
orientation we distribute these to all students who want one.  It costs 
about $2,500 per year but pays dividends far in excess of that amount from 
the good will we generate.  Every problem is really an opportunity in disguise.

Eric C. Shoaf
Head, Preservation Department
Brown University Library