Rapid Response & Turnaround for University of Cumbria

After a fire in an office at the University of Cumbria’s campus in London, an adjacent library space was impacted by the spread of airborne smoke particles. Every one of the library’s books was covered in a thin layer of smoke, forcing the closure of the library at a crucial point in the academic year and disrupting the work of the students attending there.

Challenge

The University Librarian made contact with Polygon's Document Restoration division to arrange an assessment for the following Monday. A Project Manager was dispatched to verify the level of damage and restoration requirements. The Campus Manager made it clear that for business continuity purposes, the University was keen to limit the closure of the library as much as possible, and asked whether reopening the library the following week might be possible.

Solution

The volumes were collected over the subsequent two days, with cleaning work starting immediately upon arrival. Over the course of the next 4 working days, all 6,500 volumes were cleaned and restored, with an interim delivery on two days later and the balance returned on the Friday and Saturday of the same week, enabling the library to reopen on time. 

Outcome

University Librarian commented:

"The speed with which you responded to my original email, were able to visit and assess the damage on site and carry out the cleaning of the book stock all within a week is beyond impressive. I’m so glad that we had the user service agreement in place with you. Many, many thanks."

Kathryn Rodgers, Managing Director, Document & Specialist Restoration, comments:

"The rapid turnaround of this project is a testament to the flexibility and capacity we have. Thanks to the whole team who pulled together to satisfy this tight deadline and complete the work to such a high quality."

If you would like to discuss how Polygon can support you on any future projects, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01480 442327 or email uk_sales@polygongroup.com