Preservation Week is coming!

Recognizing the critical role libraries play in preservation, the Association for Library Collections and Technical Services (ALCTS) in partnership with the Library of Congress and the Institute of Museum and Library Services launches the first national Preservation Week, May 9-15, 2010. It is the first national awareness campaign targeting collections preservation awareness for the general public by strengthening community partnerships for preservation.

Preservation Week provides a time when thousands will turn to libraries across the U.S. for information and expertise on how to preserve collectables, photos, family records and other valuable materials. During Preservation Week, themed “Pass it on,” participating libraries will offer special programs and services that will help connect library users with preservation tools; promote the importance of preservation; and will strive to enhance knowledge of preservation issues among the general public.

“Libraries offer more than just books, they also are an excellent resource for high-quality information and expertise on how to preserve family keepsakes,” said ALA President Camila Alire. “Preserving items such as old photographs, letters, collectables and family movies, provides a map of the past and access to a full range of information that can impact the future.”

The Preservation Week Web site (www.ala.org/preservationweek) connects librarians and the public with excellent resources, tracks programs across the country, enables people to share their stories, and provides information on a wide variety of preservation issues.

Libraries can enter their programs and events on the Google map right on the main page. People can share their stories by clicking the “Share your Story” icon on the main page. Find a speaker for your event under “Events Toolkit” along with other program ideas. Find more events on the “Events Calendar” including two free live preservation webinars on May 11th and 13th. Click the “Toolkit” for important resources and information you can use and libraries can share with their users. Coming soon will be a press kit with logos and more information. Check back often as more information and resources are being added every day.