The Role of Libraries in a Disaster-Ready Community

Ralph ToyamaHawaii Library Association Annual Conference

December 6, 2014

Hawaii Emergency Preparedness

and Homeland Security Workshop

October 21-23, 2013Hawaii Convention Center

HLA Invited to HEPHSW2013

Representatives of government and non-government disaster response agencies and organizations

Representatives of community organizations without traditional disaster response roles

Attendees:

Emergency planners recognize that government and NGOs alone cannot serve all needs during a major disaster

Neighbors have always been willing to help neighbors

Recognition that members of the community who can be a resource in disaster recovery should be brought into the planning process

Evolution of Planning Philosophy

Community Resiliency

Mass Care and Vulnerable Populations

Cyber Security for Everyone

Programs still mostly focused on interests ofdisaster planners and responders.

Conference Tracks

Groups built on shared interests, culture, sports, hobbies, religious affiliations, etc.

Businesses willing to make their equipment, facilities, and personnel available in a disaster

Community volunteers, prepared and trained to respond, who can also play a role in planning, and participate in outreach and education

Community Resources

Government planners are aware of resources in the community, have relationships with and support community groups.

Members of the community take an active role in assessing and mitigating hazards, and preparing to help themselves and others in an emergency.

What is a Disaster-Ready Community?

Prepare to address our specific collection care needs.

Share our expertise in recovering storm-damaged materials.

What Roles for Libraries?

Prepare ourselves to respond to disastersCERT (Community Emergency

Response Team) training

Provide emergency preparation information

Be prepared to give guidance to patrons during an emergency

Be Prepared

Be a source of recovery information

Allow use of facilities for relief operations.

Provide access to computers, printing, WiFi.

Be a place of refuge. Offer respite and distraction.

Disaster Recovery

Contact emergency planners in your area to let them know what services you are willing to offer.

Alert the Authorities!

My report on the Hawaii Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security Workshop 2013 is available at:

http://goo.gl/MD9A2P

Thank you!

http://goo.gl/F3GTXz

This PowerPoint File: