Libraries: Essential Service According to FEMA

Susan Hildreth, IMLS Director writes in Primary Source, May 2011:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently established new regulations in Section 403 of the Stafford Act qualifying libraries, along with police, fire protection/emergency services, medical care, education and utilities, as essential community services. The change helps libraries in need to relocate so they can keep serving the public in the wake of a disaster, flood or other emergency.

See: Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act
Provision of Temporary Relocation Facilities:
Section 403 of the Stafford Act authorizes FEMA to provide Federal assistance to meet immediate threats to life and property resulting from a major disaster. Specifically, Section 403 (a)(3)(D) allows for the provision of temporary facilities for schools and other essential community services, when it is related to saving lives and protecting and preserving property or public health and safety.