Water Damage Recovery

Any wet material should be handled as little as possible.

In order to prevent mold from developing it is absolutely essential to stabilize water damaged materials within 48-72 hours.  When it is hot and humid 48 hours is the maximum safe period.  Damp books are even more susceptible to mold than wet ones. All books, even those apparently dry, should be removed from the affected area and examined carefully.  They should be stored in an area with:

• Good air circulation,

• Air conditioning, and

• With low humidity.  

All books should be thoroughly dry and be checked for mold before they are returned to their places. As soon as area has been declared safe by the Fire Department, the following should be done:

• Secure the area, cordoning off the affected ranges in order to prevent possible  injury to staff and patrons

• Stabilize Environment

• In winter open windows and doors to lower temperature as much as possible but not below 32 degrees

• Have Physical Plant shut off heat if possible 

• Circulate air with fans

• In summer request Physical Plant to lower temperature as much as possible.  Circulate air with fans

• Try to lower humidity as rapidly as possible.  Bring in de-humidifiers 

• Mop up water as soon as possible after source of water damage has been located and incoming water stopped

• Make notes describing the scene, including:1)number of ranges and approximate number of books affected, 2)condition of the stacks (braced or leaning), and 3)photograph the scene if a camera and film are available  
  
• Appoint a person to meet and direct arrivals of off-site supplies and personnel 

• Make arrangements for equipment and supplies