Who we are:

The Safety & Security Committee supports the Z. Smith Reynolds Library community through preparedness planning, emergency coordination, operational continuity work, and ongoing review of safety-related procedures and resources. The current iteration of ZSR’s Safety and Security Committee includes:

  • Prentice Armstrong (2024-26)
  • Rodrigo Castro (chair, standing)
  • Thomas Dowling (standing)
  • Craig Fansler (2025-27)
  • Patrick Ferrell (2024-26)
  • Will Ritter (2024-26)
  • Alayna Veasey (2025-26)
  • Hu Womack (2025-26)
  • Sam Sfirri (standing)

What are we currently working on:

The Safety and Security Committee is currently advancing several key initiatives:

Safety and Security Student Training: This project focuses on updating the Safety & Security section of the Student Training LibGuide to ensure it reflects current best practices and expectations. The revised content will include guidance on Emergency Communications, Emergency Scenarios, Evacuation Procedures, Fire and Life Safety, and Active Shooter response.

Continuity of Operations: This initiative involves revising the 2020 Continuity of Operations document, which serves as a framework for guiding post-emergency response. The updated document will outline the steps necessary to ensure that library services, collections, and resources remain accessible and operational in the aftermath of an incident.

Inclement Weather Support: This effort supports library and university-wide initiatives to ensure safe and effective operations during inclement weather, particularly when the library remains open. This includes the curation and maintenance of emergency supplies such as crampons, salt, snow shovels, and ice melt.

Safety & Security Resources:

Emergency Plans:

Seasonal Reminders

There will be construction in and around ZSR this summer. A crane will be outside the building, so please adhere to all posted safety signage and use care when navigating near the construction zone. There will also be an alternate entrance temporarily.

As spring comes to the Winston-Salem area it is important to remember that along with the flowers and warm weather comes the increased potential for severe storms and tornadoes. Please make sure to review the procedures in the Safety Brochure and think about where you would shelter in the event of a Tornado Warning.

Wake Safe apps: