The second class I took was on developing a disaster plan. It covered the different ways to identify possible hazards, prepare for disaster, create an action plan to prevent chaos and write a disaster plan the includes a strategy for recovery. I found the course interesting. It gave several good ideas what to do before the disaster to help facilitate getting back to business asap. One thing they mentioned was to make a call list of people to notify of the disaster. Another idea that I especially liked was how they prioritized the items into 3 categories in case of a disaster. The three priorities are:
1- salvage at all costs. This would include financial records, local histories, and reference.
2-salvage if time allows. this would be non-fiction and out of print items.
3-easily replaceable items. this would be mass market paperbacks, computer equipment etc...
The items in the groups would vary on the individual establishment.
Another thing they recommended (that I never thought about) is to make a list of local companies that clean carpets, spray for bugs, freeze dry valuable papers etc.. before the disaster so you can access their phone numbers easily and get the help you need fast. They also recommend that you keep a copy of the disaster plan and any lists off site in a safe spot so that if a disaster did strike the library the plans wouldn't be destroyed.
While some of this is in the safety plan where I work there are several things that were new. I think everyone would benefit from this. You can never be too prepared for a disaster!
What a great class to take! It's a fact that disasters can happen, so better to be prepared for them before they strike. Also, having a ready reference available before you need it might prove to be a tremendous help when you are without power or resources to find the information you need.
ReplyDeleteIt always a good idea to be prepared. We have a disaster plan established, although not many employees know about it. At least, if something were to happen, we have something to refer to for guidance.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if it is common for libraries to have a written disaster plan. I know weather emergency plans are common- but this would go beyond that.
ReplyDeleteThis does sound like a great class. The disaster plan that we have in place at work also covers just the general what to do in an emergency. It does not cover what would happen if the disaster actually happened and how to clean up after it.
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