Crisis and Disaster Management at King Abdulaziz Public Library

a descriptive study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the current state of crisis and disaster management at King Abdulaziz Public Library (KAPL), focusing on staff awareness, management stages, existing obstacles, and proposals for improvement. Using a descriptive survey method, data were collected via a questionnaire distributed to all 177 employees across KAPL’s departments and branches in Riyadh.

The results revealed that KAPL has faced various crises, most notably insect and rodent infestations, power outages, and fires. The staff demonstrated a high level of awareness of crisis and disaster management concepts, with a mean score of 2.95 out of 4. However, the implementation of crisis and disaster management stages was found to be weak across all areas, with a mean score of 2.16. Additionally, the study identified several significant obstacles hindering effective management, scoring a high average of 2.80.

Despite these challenges, participants strongly supported the proposed recommendations to enhance crisis preparedness, achieving a high agreement level with a mean of 3.44 out of 4. The most notable recommendations included: activating the crisis and disaster management function within the library, forming a trained crisis management team, organizing regular training and workshops, utilizing advanced early warning technologies like AI, involving staff in decision-making, establishing a formal and comprehensive crisis management plan, and implementing virtual simulations for emergency preparedness.

Overall, the study highlighted the urgent need to develop a structured and proactive crisis management framework within KAPL to ensure readiness, minimize risks, and improve response effectiveness