Our goal: to establish an environment where staff and patrons are provided information and directions for maintaining safety in the event of severe weather.

Tornado Watch or Severe Thunderstorm Watch: means that conditions are conducive to the development of tornados or severe thunderstorms in our Watch Area (namely, Wyandotte County).

What to expect:

• User Services Staff will announce the Watch over the PA system alerting patrons that a Tornado Watch or Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect.
• You may see Staff closing blinds around the building in work and public areas.
• You may be asked to move to the first floor if a Warning message comes over the PA.

Tornado Warning: means a tornado has been sighted or a Severe Thunderstorm has been confirmed:

What to expect:

• User Services Staff will announce a "CODE GRAY" or "Tornado Warning" over the PA system instructing patrons to move immediately to SAFE AREAS:
  • Restrooms on the ground floor
  • Emergency stairwells at the first floor
  • Interior walls; away from all windows or skylights
• Library Staff will assists patrons in locating the safe areas
• Staff will move to a safe areas as well
• Library Staff or Emergency Personnel will announce when a Watch or Warning has ended