Abstract: A protected package (20) of optical fiber includes a spool which includes a hub (22) and two spaced flanges (24,26). Optical fiber (23) is wound on the hub with an end of the fiber being accessible to allow the fiber to be tested. A strip (52) of plastic material is wrapped about the spool with longitudinal edge portions (54,54) of the strip overhanging the flanges to provide a cover (50). The protected package permits withdrawal of the fiber through a gap (64) between the cover and the flanges. Further, in a preferred embodiment, each longitudinal edge portion is provided with openings (60,60). The openings are spaced apart such that when a strip is wrapped about any of expected size spools, at least one pair of the openings will become aligned to allow insertion of fastening means (62) which function to hold the strip assembled to the spool to protect the fiber and to prevent unintended removal of the cover.