Emergency Management for Archivists

When it comes to disaster planning, the question is not if a disaster will strike, but when. Preparation for and response to disasters is among the most important things that archivists can do to safeguard their collections, but it's one that is often postponed due to other competing priorities. Disaster preparedness involves more than just writing a disaster plan; the plan must be updated and read, and communication with colleagues and first responders is essential.

In this workshop you are introduced to the basics of emergency management for archivists. You’ll discuss the four phases of a disaster (mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery), as well as how to conduct a risk assessment, write a disaster plan, prioritize collections, and sustain preparedness. In addition to theoretical planning, you’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on skills in analyzing and mitigating risks by conducting an on-site assessment during a walk-through of the hosting institution. The practical tips and tools you’ll discuss will help you get started so you won’t be caught unaware when disaster strikes.