A discussion of fire risks, causes, prevention, and salvage in libraries is presented in text and photographs. A description of some historic library fires demonstrates the value of adequate protection and preparedness programs to minimize loss and damage. The need for fire retardant construction and protection from valdalism and arson are discussed, followed by a history and analysis of the fire which destroyed the law library at Temple University in Philadelphia. Alternatives for reducing fire risk are suggested, such as renovation, reconstruction, warning devices, and fire extinguishing systems, with emphasis on automatic sprinkler systems using water or chemicals such as Halon 1301. Guidelines for disaster preparedness are provided, including those for water emergencies and fire prevention. Procedures and sources of information for salvaging wet books are outlined. Finally, there is a review of automatic fire protection systems: where to find technical information, lists of types of systems, and manufacturers promotional materials illustrating samples of various types of systems. Appendixes contain three reprints which describe fire protection at the National Archives, a book salvage operation, and the Military Personnel Records Center fire. A bibliography is included. (LS)