In the line of disaster: preparedness and effective response of academic libraries in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the preparedness and responsiveness of Malaysian academic librarians in handling disruptions in library services during a disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative approach involved semi-structured interviews with decision-makers, chief librarians and library managers from five selected public universities.

Findings

Thematic and qualitative data analysis produced several key themes based on (1) disaster preparedness involving policies, plans, asset protection, risk management, coordination of disaster management and preparative measures; and (2) disaster response involving strategies for information and communication access, community engagement, emergency response teams and procedures, and resource availability.

Practical implications

The findings are expected to be useful for policymakers in formulating policies and guidelines for library disaster management plans.

Social implications

The interruptions of academic library services during a disaster may result in the disruption of the information sources and social information networks of students, academics and researchers alike. Effective disaster management is also the library’s responsibility to protect collections that belong to society at large.

Originality/value

This is one of the first attempts in disaster management research to focus on the preparedness and responses of academic libraries in Malaysia in the face of disasters. Therefore, the results of this study can be used as a baseline for policymakers to prepare policies, guidelines and manuals for management in the event of a disaster.

Citation

Abidin, M.I., Kiran, K. and Samsuddin, S.F. (2024), "In the line of disaster: preparedness and effective response of academic libraries in Malaysia", Library Management, Vol. 45 No. 8/9, pp. 506-526. https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-02-2024-0021