DISASTER RESPONSE

Library Materials

Disaster Response Kit

Insects

Mold

Water

DISASTER RESPONSE:
Water

If you find mold in your collections, please contact Preservation Services immediately at 617-253-5282.

PROTOCOL FOR HANDLING A WET BOOK:

1. Put on plastic gloves
2. Put wet item in ziplock bag
3. Seal bag and either bring to Preservation Services or call 3-5282 for pickup. If it is after hours, follow the guidelines at http://libstaff.mit.edu/preservation/disasterresponse.html#recovery.
4. Wash hands
5. Inspect area for evidence of mold

All supplies (gloves, bags, etc.) are available from Preservation Services.

Mold can be a threat to human health, as well as destroy library collections. Mold can grow anywhere, and especially thrives in conditions of heat, humidity, darkness, and low air circulation. The best way to prevent mold is to properly control and monitor the environment.

For more information on mold please go to http://palimpsest.stanford.edu/byauth/nyberg/spore.html.

Last updated August 26, 2009