What is Redundancy

Since the year 2000 libraries' concepts of disaster management, contingency planning and the role of libraries in a major disruptive event have changed dramatically. Libraries have gone from an emphasis on protecting and restoring collections and facilities to an emphasis on service continuity. Although broadband adoption nationwide remains disproportionate at best, the advent and widespread use of the Internet and e-government mean that libraries have become the centers of communication for their communities in a crisis. This chapter will demonstrate the essential role of libraries before, during and after a disaster, both short term and long term and how to get a seat at the table with community planners by demonstrating the functions that are critical to recovery. In order to fulfill this community role, a library first needs to be prepared with its own business continuity plan.