ALA, library community work to support Hurricane Florence recovery efforts

CHICAGO – American Library Association (ALA) and its chapters in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia are working to assist libraries affected by Hurricane Florence. Support efforts will involve most Atlantic Seaboard libraries in serving as a lifeline for residents in dire need of FEMA and insurance forms, access to electrical power, internet access, heat or important information about storm relief and recovery efforts.  

“Our hearts and prayers go to the more than 10 million citizens working to recover from this historic and devastating storm,” said ALA President Loida Garcia-Febo. “The ALA and library community have a long history of helping those in need and will work to support our chapters during this crisis. We have contacted our affiliates in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and other impacted states to explore how we can support relief efforts.  

“As we continue to assess damage to local libraries, we ask ALA members to visit chapter websites for information regarding donations and volunteer opportunities.”

ALA offers disaster preparedness and response resources for libraries of all types and sizes. ALA LibGuide on Library Disaster Preparedness and Response from the ALA Library contains information on organizations that provide disaster assistance; online disaster recovery resources and a bibliography of print resources.

A list of resources for dealing with natural disasters is also available through the association’s Libraries Respond page at http://www.ala.org/advocacy/natural-disasters .

Members and advocates interested in joining ALA’s work to support Atlantic Seaboard library recovery efforts may visit ala.org/donate.   

About American Library Association  
American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, ALA has been the trusted voice of libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit ala.org. To contribute to support ALA’s work, visit ala.org/donate.