The Role of Libraries in a DisasterReady Community

The Role of Libraries in a Disaster-Ready Community Ralph Toyama Hawaii Library Association Annual Conference December 6, 2014

HLA Invited to HEPHSW 2013 Hawaii Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security Workshop October 21 -23, 2013 Hawaii Convention Center

Attendees: � Representatives of government and nongovernment disaster response agencies and organizations � Representatives of community organizations without traditional disaster response roles

Evolution of Planning Philosophy � Emergency planners recognize that government and NGOs alone cannot serve all needs during a major disaster � Neighbors neighbors have always been willing to help � Recognition that members of the community who can be a resource in disaster recovery should be brought into the planning process

Conference Tracks � Community � Mass Resiliency Care and Vulnerable Populations � Cyber Security for Everyone Programs still mostly focused on interests of disaster planners and responders.

Community Resources � 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

What is a Disaster-Ready Community? � 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 Roles for Libraries? � Prepare needs. � Share to address our specific collection care our expertise in recovering stormdamaged materials.

Be Prepared � Prepare ourselves to respond to disasters CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training � Provide � Be emergency preparation information prepared to give guidance to patrons during an emergency

Disaster Recovery � Be a source of recovery information � Allow use of facilities for relief operations. � Provide � Be access to computers, printing, Wi. Fi. a place of refuge. Offer respite and distraction.

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

Thank you! My report on the Hawaii Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security Workshop 2013 is available at: http: //goo. gl/MD 9 A 2 P

This Power. Point File: http: //goo. gl/F 3 GTXz