For Spring Quarter in 2007, I took LIS 507 which focused on best practices librarians could engage in to keep their library's books in good condition. As I listened in class, I found myself thinking about the preservation measures we were taking at my workplace, the Seattle Pacific University Library. At the time, the staff were doing some of the things mentioned in class, mostly in connection with the building environment: temperature, humidity, and other similar aspects. Book handling, however, was another matter.

 I realized that many of the student staff - the ones who handled the books most - probably never thought about how to keep the books in good condition. If they were taught a few simple preservation concepts, it would go a long way toward keeping the library's collection in good order, helping SPU save money in replacing books, and saving time in the small and overworked Technical Services Department.

 During summer break, I wrote a three-page handout detailing some basic preservation practices and the reasons behind them. I also added some pictures to clarify some of the terms and concepts. Then, using this handout as a guide, I wrote a 10-question quiz to be administered to students after they read the handout, to reinforce the concepts.

 My simple preservation program was instituted Fall Quarter, 2007. Now, all new student workers in the Circulation and Technical Services Departments read the handout and take the quiz as part of their training. While it is too early to tell if the library has saved money, students have responded favorably to the training.

 This was the first time in my professional career that I took a leadership role. I saw a need and a solution and I worked to fill the need. While this was a small-scale case of leadership, it has given me both experience and know-how for taking the lead on larger projects in the future.

To see the Preservation Handout and Quiz that I created, click on one of the links below:

Preservation Handout
Preservation Quiz