Rich Cultural Heritage
The archives of the French National Library currently reside in the Richelieu site which was founded in 1720 and was the historical birthplace of the French National Library (BNF). The Richelieu site hosts BNF’s oldest collections such as:
- maps and plans
- prints and photographs
- manuscripts, western and oriental wings
- coins, medals and antiques
- music
- performing arts
Numerous conditions need to be met for the preservation of the valuable objects harbored within these collections. The French National Library chose to use an integrated remote monitoring system that uses WIN-911’s strategic partner Micromedia’s ALERT alarm notification software.
Micromedia’s ALERT monitoring system, coupled with CEGELEC’s Vespa supervisor, ensures the preservation of the most ancient archive documents, objects and costumes in France’s heritage. The system monitors over 100 critical or high-priority alarms such as the air treatment plant, the library’s power plants and fluid levels in the heating and air-condition systems.
Main Alarm Types
The air treatment system is permanently monitored to ensure that the quality, humidity, and temperature of the air meet precise preservation conditions so as to ensure the safety of some of the most fragile archives. The fluid levels in the heating and air-conditioning system are also checked regularly to ensure that the system remains fully operational. The library’s power plants are monitored through the systematic checking of electrical energy. In the event of a power cut, backup generators are activated so that power can be restored to critical buildings.
Functionality of Monitoring System
The remote monitoring system is comprised of three operation stations equipped with CEGELEC’s Vespa supervisor. One of these stations runs Micromedia’s ALERT application. Anytime an alarm goes off, a SMS is sent to the mobile phones of the various managers monitoring the alarm. Upon receiving a notification, a permanent maintenance staff based at the Richelieu site addresses any problems on-site. ALERT records every alarm and subsequent actions taken such as acknowledgements, login, and logout.
Through a remote monitoring system that ensures a quick response to an alarm, WIN-911’s strategic partner has ensured the safe-keeping of France’s rich history for years to come.
For more information, please contact WIN-911’s strategic partner Micromedia at http://www.micromedia-int.com/en/ or email [email protected].
