Active Shooter Policies in Libraries | ALA Annual 2016; Library Journal, 7/5/16

Stephanie Sendaula, Library Journal; Active Shooter Policies in Libraries | ALA Annual 2016:

"HAVE A DISASTER PLAN

Meier recommended that active shooter policies should be part of library’s emergency or disaster plan, and that training should occur on a regular schedule. The policy should have plans for communication, evacuation, a gathering place, and a lockdown area. Focus on areas that are hard to secure, keeping in mind any possible hiding places or escape routes. Most importantly, she added, always know your two nearest exists. Staff roles and responsibilities should also be included in the policy, along with instructions on where to take patrons.

The question of where to take patrons or what to do when patrons don’t want to leave the library was raised by listeners. The advice? Follow your disaster plan as closely as possible anyway. Some academic librarians in the audience had already experienced active shooters, either on their campus or at the library itself. They shared their stories, giving others in the audience, along with Meier, additional tips on how to try to try to remain calm and help patrons in a stressful situation. All agreed that a well-trained and coordinate staff is essential to protecting both staff and patrons.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Meier recommended the video “Surviving an Active Shooter” by the LA County Sheriff.

Others in the audience recommended the Department of Homeland Security

The U.S. Navy also has helpful information."