REALM Project
REopening
Archives, Libraries,
and Museums
Considerations and checklists
Resources > Considerations and checklists
These guides synthesize resources from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) along with other organizations to help libraries, archives and museums navigate decision making and manage uncertainty.
Managing uncertainty during COVID-19
Updated: 18 March 2021
A year after COVID-19 upended our lives, we are still contending with many uncertainties. Pandemics make for a complex problem in a complex system. Organizations have had to make decisions quickly based on information that is patchy, flawed, or indirect. Undisputed conclusions are hard to settle on, and there is no one decision to rule them all. Turns out, this uncertainty is the nature of decision-making during a global public health crisis.
Reopening considerations
Updated: 5 March 2021
When creating reopening plans or revising protocols to meet current conditions, reviewing what other institutions are doing can be helpful. This document synthesizes reopening plans that have been generously shared by libraries, archives, and museums (LAMs).
Cleaning and disinfecting considerations
Updated: 5 February 2021
This guide synthesizes resources from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to clean and disinfect public spaces. In addition to social distancing, practicing prevention hygiene, and following public health guidelines, reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by cleaning and disinfecting can be an important part of reopening your facility.
Decision-making checklist
Updated: 19 November 2020
While working toward resuming operations and services to the public, many factors and resources (national, state, local) should inform your local decision-making. This list of considerations offers a starting point and includes links to guides and additional information.
Collections and facilities: Caring for your resources during COVID-19
Updated: 8 October 2020
Chris Carron, Director of Collections at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, and a member of the REALM Operations Working Group, shares how the museum's policies and procedures have evolved in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.