. Keep an adequate supply of magnetic media
(scratch tapes, initialized disk packs, diskettes, and
cassettes) available in the library and/or in the computer
area ready for use.
. Retrieve and file magnetic media in accordance
with command policy.
l Maintain a current inventory of all magnetic
media.
Control tapes (save tapes, work tapes, and
scratch tapes) on a rotational basis.
l Test tapes for quality, and clean and degauss
tapes and disks according to prearranged schedules or
upon release by programmers and in-house users.
. Ensure that all magnetic media is acclimated to
the atmosphere in which it will be used for at least 24
hours before releasing it for use.
. Inspect new tapes and install BOT and EOT
reflectors if not provided by the manufacturer.
. File newly created tapes after checking the
identification tape reel number against the tape strap
number (if used) and verifying that the security
classification on the label matches that on the tape reel.
. Refile previously created tapes, being careful to
scrutinize each as if it were a newly created tape.
. Strip tapes (by removing the first 100 feet) when
the error rate increases and replace the beginning-of-
tape (BOT) reflector. If a tape has damage to its end,
remove the last 100 feet
(EOT) reflector.
. Keep all system
condition at all times.
and replace the end-of-tape
tapes and disks in good
l Maintain a record of tapes and disks that have
been cleaned by stamping the Julian date on a cleaning
label on the back surface of the tape reel or disk pack
canister.
. Clean disk pack covers according to schedule or
as the need arises.
l Maintain and distribute tape and disk error and
usage reports.
. Maintain control of certain required data files,
program files, and various types of microforms
(microfilm/microfiche).
l File all library materials in a neat, organized, and
uniform manner.
. Have a standard operating procedure (SOP)
instruction manual, indicating all library procedures,
readily available.
. Have an adequate supply of save (external)
labels and classification labels available for the
computer operators.
Q Check all user submitted save labels with job/run
request sheets to ensure they are correct.
. Check save labels to ensure they indicate no
more than a 90-day save request, and that only one 90-
day extension is granted before the tape is copied to
another tape.
. Ensure all users annotate, initial, and return their
weekly copy of the release report, indicating what tapes
are to be scratched, cleaned, degaussed, stripped, or
mailed off-site; or any other action they deem
necessary.
. Collect a copy of the save labels from the
operators for the tape library tape/disk database file
(only if the site has an automated tape library control
system) and supported software.
. Maintain off-site storage of tapes and disks for
disaster recovery.
. Maintain a current list of all foreign (outside)
tapes and disks received and return them on schedule.
. Ensure fire-fighting equipment in the library is
maintained and inspected by appropriate personnel (fire
department, damage control petty officer, and so on) in
accordance with command policy.
. Update fire-fighting instructions as necessary.
.
. Maintain the correct temperature and humidity
in the library.
. Maintain security requirements and access to the
library area.
. Ensure unauthorized persons do not remove
magnetic media or related materials from the library.
. Promptly report any and all problems to your
supervisor, leading chief, or other appropriate
personnel in accordance with standard operating
procedures (SOPS).
As you see by this list, there is a lot to do. In anyone
day, you may perform one or many of these tasks.
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