From the American Library Association
American Library Association (ALA) President Jim Neal released the following member statement regarding a mass shooting at the Clovis-Carver Public Library in New Mexico,
“We are shocked and saddened by the shooting at the Clovis-Carver Public Library in New Mexico,” said Neal. “We mourn those who were killed, and we offer our thoughts and prayers for the wounded, the families of the victims, library staff, and the community. ALA offers its full support to Clovis-Carver Public Library, the New Mexico Library Association, and the New Mexico State Library as they deal with this senseless violence.
“Unfortunately, we must all be prepared for violence in public places. The ALA encourages its members to work closely with local law enforcement and officials to prepare and train for violence prevention and response. The ALA also provides resources to assist with this issue.”
Librarians are encouraged to visit ALA resources and best practices regarding violence prevention, emergency preparedness, and other valuable resources at:
- Public Library Association Webinar on Violence Prevention in the Public Library
- Gun Violence and Libraries: Safety and Security for the Library Public from ALA Library Libguides
- Emergency Preparedness from the Public Library Association
- Resolution on Gun Violence Affecting Libraries, Library Workers, and Library Patrons
ALA’s Libraries Respond website also offers additional resources.