Disaster plans are only as good as the people that implement them. The following trainings and exercises can help your library prepare before the next disaster. If you have a resource to share on LibraryRecovery.org, please email William Cooley at wcooley@ckgroup.org.
Emergency & Disaster Response Training
- Listos California: Emergency Preparedness CourseListos, an initiative of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, offers a basic online course and training program for community partners throughout the state.
- FEMA: Emergency Management Institute The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers in-depth trainings on a rolling basis through the Emergency Management Institute. Contact your city or county to inquire about local FEMA disaster trainings.
- Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) TrainingThis nationwide program educates community volunteers to improve disaster preparedness and assist in response. Find your local CERT group using the link above and consider inviting them to host a meeting at your library.
Mental Health Training
- Mental Health First AidThis course teaches participants how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. Libraries throughout the state are training staff and volunteers in Mental Health First Aid, as a way to better support their communities.
- Psychological First Aid (PFA)For staff who are interested in deepening their skills, Psychological First Aid offers evidence-based practices to help reduce distress in the aftermath of a disaster. Training is available online or in-person. Materials are typically free or available for a low cost.
- Skills for Psychological Recovery (SPR) SPR focuses on longer-term recovery in the weeks and months following a disaster. SPR resources include guides, tip sheets, handouts, sample conversations and prompts.
Tabletop Exercises
- Coming soon