If a gunman enters Carol Grotnes Belk Library from the main entrance and you feel compelled to act, use surrounding items and smaller pieces of furniture as makeshift weapons. Ideally, these would include lighter items that allow for easy mobility — for example, a small chair. This could distract the gunman long enough for others in the library to escape.

When attempting to escape from an active shooter, run from structure to structure in order to avoid direct hits or ricochets. Pause momentarily between structures and wait for the opportune time — when the shooter is reloading or is distracted — to dash to the next structure. In Carol Grotnes Belk Library, usable structures could be pillars, bookshelves or sofa chairs.

Only attempt to run to the second or third floor if the shooter is pursuing you. The windows in the library are two-paned and do not have an opening mechanism. There are more than half a dozen exits on the first floor. If the emergency exits are utilized, alarms will sound — alerting the police and the shooter. Move quickly to put as much distance between yourself and Belk Library once through the exit.

Unless you are trapped or injured, do not hide in the event of an active shooting. Although the library has many hiding spots and exits, your top priority should be escaping.