Hi GK and Everyone,
There has been so much going on behind the scenes that I'm running a behind in getting the information out. We have already been contacted to see if we could help those in Joplin, MO and the word is
YES! I received this yesterday from an OPR member in Springfield, MO. Victoria Johnson, B.A. M.F.A; Systems Web Admisninstrator; Olin Library, Drury University:
I was wondering what the criteria for OPR coming to the rescue is? I'm not sure there is going to be much left in Joplin but I know that the first thing I thought of when the sirens went off was my photos – those irreplaceable pictures of great grannie! I work for a University here in Springfield, MO so thought about part of our recovery contributions being help with photographs as well as clothing drives, donations etc. We are part of a statewide consortium of libraries so help would be easy to come by; including the University there in Joplin.
This is mostly an information gathering mission at present; I think what this organization does is “priceless”…. V
We have been corresponding back and forth and I am so thrilled that OPR will be teaming up with the libraries for a copy run in the future, but also being able to get the word out about how to save the photos from further damage this early is priceless. More from Victoria:
Great news! I can be a contact person here as well as help get things rolling. The libraries in this part of the state are all in a consortium together so everyone is banding together to do what we can. MSSU the main university is acting as a triage center right now; but that will let up as they transfer patients to the outlaying hospitals. Lodging – we can get volunteers or university housing … Springfield is about 65 miles from Joplin straight down I44. My husband is also one of your restoration folks (Randy Henderson) and will be on hand also. My job will let me volunteer my time (the university encourages all it members to do community service).
I'll start getting the word out about drying photos etc. I will also start scouting out venues and volunteers. I can also talk to the newspapers and TV if you like; they could say something about saving photos, drying etc. … Just let me know how to get started. V
Right now I have been asked for a news release as their Media director on campus said that an official "news Release" would carry more weight. I hope this could be the start of how we will operate in the future by teaming up with libraries or historical foundations after a disaster hits---this will be a huge advantage!
Once I get some of the loose ends done; I hope to have our home page up to date on all the activity going on. The newsletter will follow with more information and that goes out to all the membership.
GK, have a safe and fun trip---you deserved it!!
Margie
P.S. We escaped all the bad weather, but 100 miles away in Reading, KS, the town was destroyed and one person killed. Last night Oklahoma got hit and 5 fatalities.
