Staff and Users
Users
The users of a library include scholars, teachers, students, undergraduates, postgraduates, researchers, teaching assistants, corporate users, foreign students, staff, schoolchildren, the public, and individuals from other institutions. An important message for users that should be embedded in training is that individuals can ruin materials and reduce access for others. The continuing accessibility of the collections is a group effort to which everyone should contribute.
Libraries often have numerous policies in place to protect collections. A few basic policies are common to all libraries. They can include the proper way to handle materials in the library and at home. Examples might also include; Permanence, Care, and Handling of CDs, Mutilation of Library Materials,Shelving Books in the General Collection, and Proper Handling of Materials for Copying. It is useful to create posters with a preservation message that can go on a digital sign or be printed.
Bookmarks and postcards are also useful for getting a preservation point across, as they are small, inexpensive to produce, and easily viewed.
Teaching children the value of handling library materials carefully can pay off in the future. School librarians have a vital role to play in this regard. Allowing children to make book covers, posters, bookmarks, and paper will help them appreciate books while giving them an opportunity for creative expression.
Cellular phones are becoming a problem in libraries because they disturb the concentration of others. Users should be thoughtful enough to turn off their cell phones while in a library and just use texting. Posted policies with clear instructions should be located at easy to see spots in the library.
Food and drink pose dangers to the collection. . In recent years, most libraries have added cafes.These provide a place to enjoy food and beverage without potentially harming the collection.
Staff
Preservation professionals should be aggressive advocates for their collections. Maintaining a circulating collection is only a part of the preservation job. There are some simple steps that staff can take to help users understand the need for care. For example, supplying plastic bags to patrons for carrying books in the rain can both protect the collection and send a positive message to users.