Libraries as Cooling Centers

Thursday, September 25

2:00 PM Eastern

Presented by:

Jared Ulmer, Climate & Health Program Manager at the Vermont Department of Health

Laura Smith, Collection Development Librarian at Harris County Public Library in Houston, TX

As extreme heat events become more frequent, libraries are exploring their role in supporting community members seeking relief. This session will begin with a brief overview of what it means to serve as a “cooling center.” Jared Ulmer, Climate & Health Program Manager at the Vermont Department of Health, will share insights on the changing risks of extreme heat, who is most vulnerable, and common challenges libraries may face when engaging in this work. Laura Smith, Collection Development Librarian at Harris County Public Library in Houston, Texas, will offer a library perspective, highlighting practical ways libraries can respond to their community’s needs during heat events.