Library’s Crisis Communications Planner: A PR Guide for Handling Every Emergency

Jan Thenell

Jul 2004 · American Library Association

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Is your library vulnerable to challenges arising from difficult patrons, censorship, budget issues, natural disasters, or disgruntled staff? Almost daily, libraries tread the line to limit the scope of problems and complaints so they don't expand into full-blown crises.

When emergencies escalate, knowing what to do in advance is the key. Libraries that are equipped with ready contact information, talking points, and spokespeople at hand are prepared to limit damage from big events or ensure small problems don't escalate. Expert library PR pro Thenell illustrates communications basics in this step-by-step primer, designed to prepare libraries for communicating to critical contacts in times of crisis.

This expert custom-made planner will guide you to creating a time-savingresource to have at your fingertips for any emergency situation.

Must-have tools include:

• Communications information kit for everyday use—and for times of crisis
• Practice scenarios for appointed spokespeople
• Checklists that provide a head start when an emergency happens
• Communication-readiness throughout the organization
• Confidence-boosting tools to deal with the media
• Customized news releases that tell your story effectively

Following these proven guidelines, libraries will gain the confidence to handle any crisis, as they lay the foundation for ongoing communications with key audiences on a regular basis.