Princeton Library Reviews Evacuation Procedures

Candace Braun

Following the recent terrorist activity in London, the Princeton Public Library's Board of Trustees sat down to review the evacuation procedures for its new facility.

Realizing the library had not developed a written plan for emergency situations since its move to Witherspoon Street last May, Director Leslie Burger worked on a plan for the new building and reviewed it with staff members in late July.

"We are fortunate to work in a community where there is a low crime rate, as well as an emphasis on public safety," read an introductory statement from Ms. Burger. She suggested that as a public building in an open society it is important that the library have a plan in place and know how to exercise good judgment and take precautions should an emergency arise.

Ms. Burger recalled the first time the library used its fire alarm system shortly after the new facility opened, when there was a minor fire in the kitchen.

"We did have a hard time getting people out of the building," she said, while noting that the library's fire alarm system is foolproof, with smoke and heat sensors all over the property that, when set off, flash strobe lights and begin a recorded message telling patrons to evacuate the library, while at the same time notifying the fire department.

With the rise in terrorist threats around the globe, however, residents have become more aware of suspicious activity. Ms. Burger said that just a few weeks ago an anonymous caller told the police department that someone had left a backpack unattended on the second floor.

When police arrived, they evacuated the second floor only, announcing that there was a bomb threat in the building, which led to a scrambling of parents trying to locate their children.

"Needless to say, it was a little dicey," said Ms. Burger, adding that eventually the bag was claimed by an individual and proven to be safe.

Backpacks are often left unattended in a library, and the procedures note that employees should "use good judgment or consult with colleagues or staff before jumping to conclusions." The person noticing the suspicious item or activity should contact the police and allow them to assess the situation.

If the danger is immediate, however, there is a panic button at each service desk that triggers a silent alarm, which employees are to use in case of a true emergency.

The procedures note that the librarian on duty on each floor is responsible for making sure that everyone clears the building in case of an emergency. No one would be allowed to reenter until the police have given the okay.