Libraries and archives have always been vulnerable to events that can strike at any time and in multiple forms such as fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, or pest and mold infestations. Over the last two decades, there have been increasing occurrences of active shooters, civil unrest, extreme weather events, and now a global pandemic. The Symposium brought professionals together from all types of institutions and organizations to discuss these threats, how to prepare for them, and share lessons learned.
The virtual Symposium that took place on July 10, 2020 was organized into six sessions. Each session addressed a specific topic, such as communications, water, updating existing emergency plans, continuity, and creating an emergency plan.