A flood occurred at the National Library of Scotland on February 26, 2009 when a sprinkler pipe burst, releasing approximately 25,000 litres of water. Around 4,000 books and thousands of manuscript items were affected. Conservation treatment was required for 516 items. Toxic mold was later discovered in one area and specialist remediation was required. The total estimated cost of the flood, including collection damage, building repairs, consultants and lost revenue, was around £250,000. Lessons were learned around disaster preparedness and response.

1. NLS Flood February 2009 Rab Jackson Preservation and Conservation Manager National Library of Scotland

4. Damage to Collections

8. Damage to Building