Community Resilience from Coast to Coast: Lessons from Disaster Research to Engage Your Community and Empower Your Library Staff

When disaster strikes, it is certainly “something wicked this way comes.” Do you feel prepared to handle the crisis? With the newest study of the California wildfires, learn how our research team is supporting a culture of preparedness for libraries. In times of crisis, librarian first responders need to provide quality, timely, and accurate information, and serve in many other roles including refuge and intermediary. We studied floods, hurricanes, and now wildfires with library staff on the topics of emergency preparedness, communication, and resources. Hear about findings to help libraries better plan for disasters, build resiliency, develop staff leadership skills and competencies, and promote community engagement. We’ll offer advocacy tips as well as share ways to address literacy and access deficiencies through partnerships. This session will include an active discussion, audience participation activities, and access to a website of resources in order to foster library preparedness and recovery.