The Future of Resilient Communities: Libraries at the Center of Disaster Recovery

When disasters strike — whether floods, wildfires, tornadoes, or other crises — libraries emerge as essential community lifelines that extend far beyond their traditional role as repositories of books. These trusted institutions transform into emergency shelters, information hubs, and digital access points, providing vital services when other infrastructure fails. From offering computer access and internet connectivity for FEMA and insurance applications to serving as coordination centers for volunteer efforts, libraries bridge critical gaps in disaster response while maintaining their commitment to equitable access for all community members.

The value of libraries in disaster response and recovery extends through every phase of the crisis cycle, from immediate emergency response to long-term community rebuilding. Their trained staff help residents navigate complex recovery processes, while their facilities provide essential gathering spaces for community support and coordination. Libraries also play a unique role in preserving community memory by protecting historical documents and creating new records of the disaster experience. As we've learned from recent events including the wildfires in Southern California, storm damage in Western North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene, to flooding in Iowa, libraries demonstrate remarkable adaptability in meeting evolving community needs during extended crises. This panel will explore how libraries and local governments can strengthen their disaster preparedness, enhance their recovery services, and continue building the social infrastructure that makes communities more resilient in the face of future challenges. Panelists will share models of collaboration with telecommunications providers, local governments, and nonprofits to ensure libraries remain at the center of disaster preparedness, response, and long-term recovery.

Attendees to this free webinar can expect to:

• Discover how libraries can serve as vital hubs for connectivity and community resilience during crises.
• Learn to identify gaps in disaster preparedness and recovery efforts that libraries are uniquely positioned to address.
• Explore new models of collaboration between libraries, government, and community partners to strengthen crisis response networks.

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Speakers:

Moderator: Rhea Yaw Ching

Executive Director, Mission Telecom

Rhea led the public launch of Mission Telecom in July 2024, and is focused on charting its strategic direction, aligning its growing team, and refining operations to ensure scalable impact on its social equity and justice initiatives. Rhea's career spans over two decades in innovation and leadership in sectors including telecommunications, with a specific emphasis on developing economies, as well as digital, social, and economic transformation.

Dianne Connery

Development Director, Pottsboro Area Public Library

Dianne Connery is the Development Director at the innovative Pottsboro (Texas) Area Public Library. She was a gerontologist, corporate trainer, and entrepreneur before moving to a rural community in 2010. On the verge of closing its doors, Dianne led a group of dedicated stakeholders who transformed it into the vibrant community-gathering place it is today. She is passionate about the role of rural libraries, especially as it relates to digital inclusion.

Tyler Hahn

Director, Cherokee Public Library

Tyler Hahn is the Director of the Cherokee Public Library in Cherokee, Iowa, where he leads initiatives focused on digital equity, inclusive engagement, and future-ready workforce development. A 2024 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, Tyler has expanded rural access to STEM education, built international esports partnerships for youth, and launched adult training programs in emerging technologies. He advocates for rural libraries as essential civic infrastructure—empowering communities through innovation, education, and connection.

Sabra Johnson

General Manager of the Office of Major Programs and Initiatives, County of Los Angeles Internal Services Department

Sabra Johnson is the General Manager of the Office of Major Programs and Initiatives with the County of Los Angeles Internal Services Department (ISD). She leads implementation of ISD’s equity initiatives including digital equity workforce programs, digital skills training for the public, internet service connectivity, small business digital marketing support, and laptop device distributions. The County’s Delete The Divide initiative employs Technology Professional Interns who provide online and in-person digital skills training classes in collaboration with faith-based organizations, schools, and CBOs; provides digital assessments to qualifying small businesses; and is in the process of building a low-cost, high-speed internet service for underserved communities. Sabra is a graduate of University of California, Irvine and California State University, Fullerton.

Sara Nichols

Energy and Economic Development Program Manager, Land of Sky Regional Council

Sara Nichols is a leading advocate for digital inclusion with nearly two decades of experience driving broadband, economic, and community development initiatives across Western North Carolina. As Energy and Economic Development Program Manager at the Land of Sky Regional Council, she has helped secure over $73 million to expand broadband access to more than 18,000 unserved residents and businesses. A respected regional expert, she also speaks nationally on digital inclusion and testified before U.S. Congress in 2023 on the importance of broadband funding.