Reinforcing Reputation

Linda Hall Library, a renowned research library specializing in science and technology, faced the daunting task of preparing for potential crises that could disrupt its operations and impact its community. The library’s Kansas City Invention Convention, an annual event celebrating innovation and creativity, also required a robust crisis resiliency plan to safeguard its success. 

The challenges were multifaceted: 

• Identifying potential threats: Determining a wide range of risks, from natural disasters to cyberattacks and public health emergencies 

• Developing a comprehensive plan: Creating a structured approach to crisis response, including communication strategies, roles and responsibilities, and escalation procedures 

• Training staff: Ensuring library staff and volunteers were equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively execute the crisis plan 

• Maintaining plan relevance: Regularly reviewing and updating the plan to adapt to changing circumstances and emerging threats 

Crux partnered with Linda Hall Library to develop tailored crisis resiliency plans for both the library and the Invention Convention through a three-phase approach:  

1. Risk Assessment:

• • Threat identification: A comprehensive analysis of potential risks 

• • Likelihood and impact assessment: Evaluating the probability and severity of each risk to prioritize mitigation efforts 

2. Plan Development:

• • Crisis team formation: Establishing a dedicated crisis management team with clear roles and responsibilities 

• • Communication channels: Identifying key communication channels, including social media, press releases and public address systems 

• • Messaging strategies: Developing consistent and effective messaging by audience for various crisis scenarios 

• • Escalation procedures: Outlining protocols for escalating incidents to higher levels of authority 

• • Training and exercises: Providing training to staff and volunteers on crisis response procedures and conducting regular drills to test the plan’s effectiveness 

3. Plan Implementation and Maintenance:

• • Regular review and updates: Periodically reviewing the plan to ensure its relevance and addressing emerging threats 

• • Testing and evaluation: Conducting tabletop exercises and simulations to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement 

• • Crisis response training: Providing ongoing training to staff and volunteers to maintain their preparedness 

• Crisis Resiliency Planning 
• Risk Assessment and Threat Analysis 
• Crisis Communication Strategy Development 
• Crisis Management Team Formation 
• Messaging Strategy Creation 
• Staff and Volunteer Training 
• Crisis Simulation and Tabletop Exercises 
• Communication Channel Planning 
• Ongoing Plan Maintenance and Updates 

Crux developed two robust crisis communication plans, providing a clear framework for responding to crises and ensuring the safety and well-being of staff, patrons and the community. 

Due to Crux’s efforts, the Library and the Invention Convention benefitted from: 

• Improved preparedness: Both entities are better equipped to handle a wide range of crises 

• Enhanced communication: Effective communication strategies have been established to ensure timely and accurate information dissemination during crises 

• Faster response times: The plans streamlined crisis response processes, enabling quick, in-the-moment decision-making 

• Reduced risk: By identifying and addressing potential threats, the Library has reduced its overall risk exposure 

• Community trust: The plans have helped to build trust with the community by demonstrating the Library’s commitment to safety and preparedness 

Through tailored plans and comprehensive training, Crux has empowered the Library to effectively manage and mitigate potential threats, safeguarding its operations and protecting the community.