Protecting collections from the unexpected
Preparedness Works partners with libraries and archives to help them prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies that threaten collections. Our services are designed to be practical, achievable, and tailored to the realities of staffing, facilities, and budgets. We focus on building internal capacity, so institutions are starting from scratch when an incident occurs.
Disaster Readiness Assessment A practical starting point
The Disaster Readiness Assessment provides a clear, realistic picture of your institution's current level of preparedness and identifies priority actions to reduce risk.
Includes:
Pre-assessment questionnaire and document review
90-minute consultation (virtual or onsite)
Written summary outlining risks, gaps, and recommended next steps
Best for: Institutions beginning preparedness work or seeking an external review
Investment: $750-$1,250
Disaster Preparedness & Response Planning Plans that can actually be used
We develop tailored disaster preparedness and response plans grounded in your collections, building, staff structure, and local risks. Plans are designed to be clear, actionable, and easy to maintain.
Services may include:
Risk assessment and prioritization
Collections-specific response workflows
Roles and responsibilities for staff
Salvage priorities and decision-making guidance
Integration with institutional emergency plans
Planning options range from focused plan reviews to comprehensive, custom plans.
Investment: Starting at $3,500
Staff training & Recovery Workshops Building confidence before a disaster happens
Preparedness plans are only effective if staff know how to use them. We provide hands-on training to help staff respond safely to small and midsize collection emergencies. Training emphasizes realistic scenarios, clear decision-making, and practical techniques for paper-based and mixed-media collections.
Training formats include:
Half-day workshops
Full-day workshops
Annual or recurring training engagements
Best for: Archives, libraries, special collections with in-house responsibilities.
Investment: Starting at $2,500-$6,000 depending on format
Disaster Recovery Kits The right tools, ready when needed
We curate disaster recovery kits designed specifically for cultural heritage materials. Kits are assembled with usability, storage, and staff safety in mind and can be customized to your collections and risk profile. Kits may be purchased as a standalone service or bundled with training to ensure staff know how to use the materials effectively.
Includes:
Collections appropriate recovery supplies
Guidance on storage and maintenance
Optional training integration
Investment: $750-$1,200
How we work
We work collaboratively with staff at all levels and tailor our approach to fit your institutions size, mission, and capacity.
Most engagements follow a simple progression:
Assess current readiness
Plan for realistic risks
Train staff to respond confidently
Equip teams with appropriate tools
Sustain preparedness through updates and refreshes
Contact me
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