Shelter In Buildings

There are occasions when library staff and users are safer inside a building than evacuating a building (as one would in the case of fire or power outage). Staying inside is advisable in severe weather, when there is external threat from people who are rioting or violently protesting, or when a confrontation may precipitate violence.

The library floor marshals and/or other staff members on duty in such times should alert library staff and users of the need to stay inside. Especially in cases of severe weather, they should direct everyone to a safe area in the library – preferably a windowless room or a hallway near the center and at the lowest level of the building.

If library staff members feel library staff and users are under serious and imminent danger of rioters, they should call (911 or x5-3333) to have doors locked. However, library staff members cannot require any individual to stay who wants to leave the building. The doors, even if locked to outsiders, permit exit.

For more detailed information see LEC shelter in place document.