Disaster Preparedness at Falmouth Memorial Library
Public libraries are tasked with the responsibility of connecting people with their reading interests as well as important information for their well-being. Recently, the news of “zombies crossing” Maine streets hit the media and spread quickly throughout the country. Just how accurate are these sightings? Is the zombie apocalypse we have heard so much about finally striking close to home?
Should I run to the library to do some research, or just check out some heavy books to use in my fight
against the undead horde?
In all seriousness, yes you should come to the library, but not to arm yourself with a book as a weapon, rather to arm yourself with important information on how to survive a natural disaster. In October, Falmouth Memorial Library kicked off a series of events called “The End is Near…well, probably not, but are you prepared for any disaster?” The lecture series is designed to prepare Falmouth families for natural disasters with information on food and water safety, first aid and a variety of emergency preparedness events.
Why the talk of zombies? Well, many organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), have found that talking to people about preparing for zombies is more entertaining than talking about the next hurricane or ice storm. The important preparedness information is the same, so why not have a little fun with it?
We began our series by hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross on October 17. Donating to help save a life is a great way for an individual to help their community prepare for any emergency.
Our next scheduled event on Tuesday, November 6 at 6:30 pm will feature information on food safety in emergency situations. Join University of Maine Cooperative Extension to learn more about the basics of keeping food and water supplies safe during unexpected emergency situations like power outages, floods and more!
Over the coming months, the Library will host a number of similar events including: emergency preparedness and basic first aid with Falmouth Fire & EMS, medicinal and poisonous plants with a specialist, a visit from Cumberland County Emergency Management Agency to discuss State preparations, and many more.
We have scheduled some fun events, too. For example, on December 21 – the date the Mayan calendar “ends” – we will show the film Night of the Living Dead at 7 pm.
Of course we can’t forget that Halloween closes out this month. For the kids and kids at heart we have some fun Halloween events planned. Join Mr. Will at 10:00 am for a special Halloween Storytime. The Library will also take part in author Neil Gaiman’s All Hallow’s Read event. Stop by between 5:00-7:00 pm to select a scary book for your trick-or-treat bag. We have a number of donated books for all readers – children and adults alike. So stop by … if you dare.
If you have any questions about the End is Near… lecture series or about library programs, please
contact Jeannie Madden, Head of User Services, at jmadden@falmouth.lib.me.us or 781-2351 x206
