Background
In 2018, following the devastating impact of hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, fires, and floods on many archives and cultural heritage institutions, the ICA’s Expert Group on Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness (EGEMDP) proposed the creation of an International Disaster Relief Fund for Archives. Drawing inspiration from the Society of American Archivists’ Disaster Relief Fund model, the ICA began this initiative in 2017 by assisting the Caribbean Regional Branch (CARBICA) in establishing a regional fund to aid institutions affected by Hurricanes Irma, Jose, and Maria. Throughout this process, the EGEMDP provided crucial advice, assistance, and training to CARBICA. The EMDP remains committed to assisting all archival institutions impacted by both natural and human-made disasters.
The Fund Will
Provide Grants
Offer small grants to any repository that holds archival records or special collections. Funds may be used for the direct recovery of damaged or at-risk materials, such as freeze drying, storage, transportation of materials, and rental facilities. Eligible expenses include supplies like acid-free boxes and folders, storage cartons, cleaning materials, plastic crates, and protective gear. The fund can also defray the costs of volunteers or laborers assisting with recovery efforts.
Offer Expert Advice and Assistance
Provide consultation with archival experts to repositories seeking information on response and recovery, including setting up triage areas, drying wet materials, and conservation and preservation of damaged items.
Support Expert Deployment
When it is safe to enter the disaster region, the fund may support the deployment of a group or team of archival experts to provide hands-on guidance in response and recovery efforts.
Review Committee
A review committee, consisting of at least three representatives from ICA (including the Chair of the Programme Commission, the Chair of the Expert Group on Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness, and the Chair of the Expert Group on Archives Buildings and Environments, or their designates), will review applications and select grant recipients. The committee will score applications based on predefined criteria and the availability of funds. Within three months of receiving aid (whether monetary or services), recipients must submit a report detailing how the aid was utilized.
Join us in preserving the world’s archival heritage by donating to the ICA Disaster Relief Fund. Your contribution can make a vital difference in helping archives recover from devastating events and continue safeguarding our shared history.