Salvage Squad Position Description
Division: University of Maryland Libraries
Sponsor: Technical Services
Department Subdivision: Preservation Department
Purpose of Position
- This is voluntary membership in a group of vital importance to the rescue of University of Maryland Libraries collections in emergency situations.
- Squad members are on call to assist in carrying out salvage activities during times of disaster.
- The Squad complements the Preservation Committee as an educational and information-sharing forum for preservation issues, in this case, related to disaster salvage in UM Libraries.
- See also, the
Salvage Squad Charge .
Duties and Responsibilities
- Participate in at least one training program annually to gain or maintain skills in protecting and salvaging collections that are threatened or damaged by a disaster.
- Assist in identifying needed training and supplies, and in reporting potential hazards.
- Agree to come to Campus from home at any time, when needed to help protect or salvage collections during a disaster.
Required for Performance of the Work
- Willingness to work under less than ideal circumstances, such as in wet areas and without electricity.
- Willingness to take direction from Salvage Leader and Co-Leaders.
- Willingness to wear protective gear supplied by library.
Desirable
- Live in close proximity to campus.
- Ability to lift boxes of wet books and other heavy objects.
- Flexibility under duress.
Physical Demands/Work Environment
- Must be able to stand for long periods.
- Must be able to pack and unpack boxes.
- Must be able to tolerate dust in the environment. Potential exposure to mold.
Term of Service
Term of service is open-ended. Salvage Squad members may remain on the Squad as long as they can meet the requirements and perform the responsibilities and duties of the position. Service will help ensure survival of collections!
