OUTPOSTS IN THE CULTURE WAR: IMPROVING RESILIENCE TO MAN-MADE THREATS AT MUSEUMS AND LIBRARIES

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24Sep_Summerlot_John.pdf (3.82 MB)
Authors
Summerlot, John P.
Subjects
museum
library
man-made threat
terrorism
culture war
domestic terror
stochastic terrorism
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
CPTED
Advisors
Matei, Cristiana
Halladay, Carolyn C.
Date of Issue
2024-09
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Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
Incidents of disruption and violence at museums and libraries are increasing. The inherent openness of these institutions, while central to their mission, makes them soft targets, which is a significant safety concern. This is further complicated by a critical gap in emergency preparedness as many institutions lack formal emergency plans or adequate training. Furthermore, there are philosophical and practical challenges of implementing stringent security measures while maintaining an open and welcoming environment. This thesis uses media reports to examine 107 incidents from November 2022–July 2023 at museums and libraries in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. These attacks included climate activist protests, violent confrontations over LGBTQ+ issues, and acts of physical violence; they illustrate the increasing range of threats to museums and libraries, as well as the lack of preparedness by the institutions to anticipate, mitigate, and respond to such incidents. Both short-term and long-term solutions are needed to address these vulnerabilities. Short-term measures include developing emergency action plans, enhancing staff training, and introducing low-cost security measures. Long-term strategies involve creating professional standards, fostering stronger collaborations among institutions, governmental agencies, and professional organizations, and integrating Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles.
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https://hdl.handle.net/10945/73375
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Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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