Safeguarding Filipiniana Materials: Recognizing and Prioritizing Risks in Transporting, Moving or Relocating Library, Archives, and Museum Collections

Abstract

Objectives. Libraries, archives, and museums are vital for learning and culture. Disasters threaten both their buildings and collections. Safety is paramount during crises, but safeguarding collections is also essential. The study investigated why five Filipiniana institutions – Filipinas Heritage Library, Lopez Museum and Library, National Archives of the Philippines, National Library of the Philippines, and University of the Philippines Diliman – Main Library – moved their collections and managed risks. Methods. The researcher used qualitative and quantitative methods, assessing risks based on probability and impact. Results. The findings revealed motivations for moving collections, either extrinsic (like renovations) or intrinsic (pride). It highlighted the importance of recognizing and prioritizing risks, even low-level ones, to protect collections and the institutions' core motivations. Conclusion. Failure to mitigate risks may lead to losses and damage, impacting these institutions' core motivations.