About the Safety & Security Committee

The Safety & Security Committee supports the Z. Smith Reynolds Library community by coordinating preparedness efforts, maintaining emergency documentation, and promoting awareness of safety resources and procedures. The current iteration of the committee includes Prentice Armstrong (2024–2026); Rodrigo Castro (Chair, standing); Thomas Dowling (standing); Craig Fansler (2025–2027); Patrick Ferrell (2024–2026); Will Ritter (2024–2026); Alayna Veasey (2025–2026); Hu Womack (2025–2026); and Sam Sfirri (standing).

2026 Focus Areas and Recent Progress

In 2026, the Committee will continue work aligned with the goals outlined in the 2024–25 report. This includes supporting clarity around Safety & Security responsibilities across the library; maintaining regular building, safety, and emergency preparedness reviews; coordinating relevant training opportunities; and ensuring that emergency documentation and public-facing resources remain accurate and current. As part of this work, the Committee will produce Safety & Security Bulletins throughout the year, update emergency-related documentation and webpages, and support the ongoing work of the ZSR Library Administrative Data Task Force.

Several of these goals have already been completed for the year. The Committee has conducted its annual building walkthrough, coordinated First Aid and CPR training, and completed updates to the Emergency Procedures Document. In addition, the Committee developed decoration guidelines intended for the Library Design Committee, which supports student-led decorating efforts during finals periods.

Ongoing Work

The Committee is currently updating the library’s Continuity of Operations (COOP) document. This work focuses on identifying strategic and operational considerations that need to be addressed during severe or long-term service disruptions, with the goal of supporting continuity of essential library services under a range of emergency conditions.

Safety & Security Resources

Please review and bookmark the following resources, which are updated regularly and provide guidance during emergency or unusual conditions:

Please continue to monitor Wake Forest University email and Wake Alerts for information about closures, delays, or emergency conditions. The library’s emergency plans for both onsite and offsite operations are also available through these channels.

Seasonal Safety Reminders

As winter weather continues, please monitor local weather forecasts as well as Wake Forest University alerts. During icy or freezing conditions, stairs and sidewalks may be difficult to navigate, as ice is often hard to see. In some situations, walking on grass may be safer than walking on icy pavement. Dressing warmly and wearing layered clothing can also help reduce risk during freezing weather.