Disaster Risk Response - Libraries and the Sendai Framework: A Briefing

Abstract

Libraries play an essential role in keeping a record of human creativity and ideas. Their work in preserving them aims to ensure their survival in order to inform and inspire future generations. Yet their collections are all too often at risk if damage or destruction if or when disasters happen. Dealing with this risk is therefore a core element of library work. Yet libraries are about more than preserving works for the long term. They also have a proactive role in managing the risk of, and responding to, disasters. In this, they make a contribution not just to the future, but to the present of their communities. Both of these aspects of libraries’ work are covered in the United Nations’ Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. This briefing provides an explanation of the Framework, explanation of where it touches on the work – or the interests – of libraries, and suggestions of how it may help promote the involvement of libraries in disaster risk reduction strategies around the world.