American Library Association - Disaster Abatement Project

The American Library Association ALA is leading a large response and recovery effort for libraries damaged by Hurricane Maria and Irma in the Caribbean, specifically in the Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands. Many libraries have been damaged beyond repair and need assistance to recover. ALA will work with the local library leaders in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to provide computers and other resources needed to restore access to communities in dire need of information on health and a multitude of other topics as they rebuild their lives. REMARKS: ALA has already connected with local librarians, especially leaders, and will be working with them on identifying the various libraries in Puerto Rico and the U.S Virgin Islands that are good candidates for assistance. Specific needs of the selected libraries will be identified. ALA will procure computers and other resources needed and deliver to the libraries. Technical and other assistance will be provided as needed at each location. ALA will identify and work with experts who can provide virtual trainings for librarians and library staff on online resources such as PubMed.