Japanese libraries & ALA Library relief effort

The massive 9.0-magnitude earthquake on March 11, 2011 triggered a tsunami that struck the east coast, devastating much of the Tohoku area in Japan. Fifteen thousand people are confirmed dead with more than nine thousand still missing.

Libraries in the region were also devastated in the region. The Minami-Sanriku Town Library disappeared without a trace. The chief librarian was killed. Rikuzen-Takata City suffered catastrophic damage from the tsunami. Most of the city area is covered with piles of rubble. All library staff members were killed or are still missing. The framework of library building remains, but nothing is left inside. 70 out of 355 public libraries in five prefectures are closed. Others are now serving as shelters for those who have lost their homes.

The American Library Association has set up this site to help take in donations from the United States for Japan Library Association, who is leading the effort to help provide services and support. Please consider making a donation to help rebuild libraries in Japan http://www.ala.org/japan

--- from http://www.ala.org/japan