B.C. (before Covid): How libraries build community resilience throughout disasters through roles and services

Abstract

Both policy and research point to the critical roles information and communication play in community resilience. Empirical and anecdotal evidence show the vital roles that public libraries play during disasters. However, few studies have explicitly looked at the roles libraries can play and services public libraries can provide to enhance community resilience across multiple disaster types. In order to understand how libraries respond in a Covid 19 world, it is critical we understand how they responded B.C. or Before Covid 19. This research explored community resilience within the context of public libraries and how they, as FEMA-designated essential community organizations, might enhance community resilience. Specifically, this research identified, defined, and clarified the roles and services played by public libraries across different types of disasters. These findings give guidance for how we should train information professionals.