Framework summary
Building Resilient Libraries and Communities
A framework for community-first disaster information services in libraries.
- 2015–2024
- Decade of field research
- Six
- U.S.-based studies
- Five
- Connected areas of practice
Background
Public libraries are essential community hubs that provide trusted information, services, and social support, especially during crises. Research shows that libraries play a critical role in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery by maintaining access to information, supporting vulnerable populations, and strengthening community resilience.
Since 2015, this research has examined libraries’ roles across multiple disaster contexts. Drawing on six U.S.-based studies, this framework translates evidence into practical, library-specific guidance. It emphasizes community-first services, cross-sector collaboration, and adaptable strategies that support libraries of all types and sizes.
What is a framework?
A framework is a practical guide made up of key ideas and recommended actions. Libraries can adapt the guidance drawn from this research to help them plan, provide, and improve disaster-related information services in their communities. Each section is designed to support both day-to-day operations and crisis conditions.
The framework at a glance
Five connected areas of practice that move from everyday services to long-term policy. Select any area to read its guidelines.
Five connected areas of practice
From everyday services to long-term policy.
- ServicesCommunity-first disaster information services
- OperationsLibrary operations before, during, and after disasters
- RelationshipsCommunity engagement, outreach, and partnerships
- CommunicationCrisis communication
- PolicyPolicy and procedure development
Community-First Disaster Information Services
Focus. Delivering accurate, accessible, and community-centered information.
- Provide timely, reliable, and culturally responsive information in multiple formats and languages
- Curate and promote trusted resources, such as health agencies and government sources
- Actively counter misinformation using prebunking and debunking strategies
- Partner with health, safety, and emergency professionals to align messaging
- Monitor community information needs and adapt services accordingly
- Offer digital and information literacy programs related to disaster preparedness and response
- Support staff training and continuous learning in disaster information services
Principles and values for community-first disaster information services
Eight principles surround the service; eight values run through all of them.
Community-first disaster information services rest on eight principles:
- Accurate & ethical
- Culturally respectful
- Multilingual & accessible
- Evidence-based
- Trusted & credible
- Partnership-driven
- Equitable access
- Resilience-building
Values Trusted · Inclusive · Prepared · Responsive · Equitable · Community-centered · Collaborative · Compassionate
Library Operations Before, During, and After Disasters
Focus. Maintaining continuity of services and operational readiness.
Before
Preparedness
- Develop and regularly update disaster plans, policies, and roles
- Conduct risk assessments and maintain community profiles
- Prepare multilingual resources and communication systems
- Establish flexible service models, such as digital access and curbside services
- Build staff capacity through training and preparedness exercises
During
Response
- Adjust operations based on safety conditions and community needs
- Maintain clear, consistent communication through multiple channels
- Provide continuous access to critical information and services when possible
- Support emergency response efforts in coordination with partners
After
Recovery
- Restore services and prioritize staff well-being
- Provide access to technology, information, and recovery resources
- Assist with applications, referrals, and community support services
- Document impacts and integrate lessons learned into future planning
Community Engagement, Outreach, and Partnerships
Focus. Building relationships and coordinated community response.
- Build and sustain relationships with community members and cross-sector partners
- Develop flexible, community-centered outreach programs across all disaster phases
- Engage underserved and vulnerable populations through inclusive practices
- Maintain current community demographic and needs assessments
- Conduct environmental scans to inform services and partnerships
- Collaborate with first responders and agencies to align services with response efforts
- Use diverse communication channels to strengthen engagement and information sharing
- Designate staff roles, such as a community liaison, to support partnerships and communication
- Empower staff to lead engagement and advocacy efforts
- Co-create programs and services with community partners
- Advocate for community needs and library sustainability
Crisis Communication
Focus. Delivering clear, coordinated, and actionable information.
Before
Preparedness
- Develop and test crisis communication plans and messaging
- Establish relationships with media and communication networks
- Prepare accessible, multilingual materials
- Train staff in communication protocols and public messaging
During
Response
- Share timely, accurate, and easy-to-understand information
- Use multiple platforms and formats to reach diverse audiences
- Coordinate messaging with emergency management and partners
After
Recovery
- Continue communicating recovery resources and updates
- Partner with media and community networks to extend reach
- Evaluate communication effectiveness and refine strategies
Policy and Procedure Development
Focus. Strengthening institutional readiness and long-term resilience.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive disaster policies and protocols
- Position libraries as resilience hubs and community resource centers
- Invest in staff training, leadership development, and well-being
- Establish data governance practices for preserving and accessing information
- Implement evaluation processes to assess performance and outcomes
- Document experiences and integrate lessons learned into continuous improvement
- Build organizational capacity through partnerships and shared resources
Conclusion
Grounded in a decade of research across a variety of states in the United States, this framework provides practical, adaptable guidance for libraries serving communities before, during, and after disasters. Its strength lies in its flexibility, evidence base, and emphasis on community-centered service.
Ongoing research and practitioner input will continue to refine and strengthen the framework, ensuring its relevance in an evolving disaster landscape. Additional resources will be placed online at preparedlibraries.org.
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Framework summary, full text
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Framework summary, designed layout
The print edition with figures, as prepared for distribution at workshops and meetings.
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The full framework
The complete document behind this summary, with the detailed guidelines for each section.
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Suggested citation
Tu-Keefner, F., Lyons, D., Hobbs, A., & the Research Team. (2026). Building resilient libraries and communities: A framework for community-first disaster information services in libraries (Framework summary). Library Disaster Preparedness Project. https://preparedlibraries.org/framework/summary/