Instructions in care and handling should be part of basic orientation for all new staff members, whatever their level. Use every opportunity to educate the public about preservation by incorporating preservation into library programs. Involve your local government. Disaster preparedness is an excellent opportunity for the public library to join with local government agencies and neighboring libraries. Bring in experts to make your point.
Expert opinion can be effective for gaining the support of government and the community.
By taking many small steps, you can achieve a great deal. An effective public library preservation program cannot be imposed from above. It is the cumulative effort of personal contact, example, and hard work. Since support and funding ultimately come from the public and since the public are the ones who use library materials, it is the public whose attitudes, opinions, and behavior must be changed. Public library staff face many challenges in educating their diverse clientele in preservation awareness.