[SOA] Summary of COVID-19 Archives Survey Results

[Natalie Fritz]

A few weeks ago, the Society of Ohio Archivists Advocacy & Outreach
Committee sent out a survey to Ohio archival repositories to gather
information regarding reopening dates, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on
staffing, and new procedures and policies implemented in response to
COVID-19.

Attached is a visual representation of the results. If nothing else, we
hope that this survey provides a general overview of how archives were
affected for posterity. We hope that some might find reassurance in seeing
others responding similarly and/or get ideas and guidance.

Other new policies being implemented, mentioned by survey respondents in
the comments: appointments made for blocks of time, limiting researcher
time, social distancing markers and increased signage, halt on new
donations, reduced work stations, one-way aisles, 14 day self-quarantine
after employees returning from hot-spot states, daily checklist for
employees to ensure health, drinking fountains turned off, gloves required
for all handling

Please note that the survey opened and closed prior to the statewide Ohio
mask order.

We want to say that with everything in flux and things changing on a daily
basis, we understand that reopening plans and procedures may have changed
considerably since the survey closed! We wish everyone the best with
whatever they are doing at their organization!

Other resources:
- A shared editable document for University archive policies and
procedures:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16DxI_IFD4h6H1inHI7tizHRvq0oB79QtZ6NrxfJVAM8/edit#gid=0
<https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16DxI_IFD4h6H1inHI7tizHRvq0oB79QtZ6NrxfJVAM8/edit#gid=0>
- Ohio coronavirus resource page:
https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/home

Thank you,

SOA Advocacy and Outreach Committee



Natalie Fritz
Curator of Library & Archives
Clark County Historical Society at the Heritage Center
117 S. Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
937-324-0657 ext. 234
nataliemfritz3 at gmail.com
www.heritage.center
Like us on Facebook! <https://www.facebook.com/clarkcountyhistory/>
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