Seattle Heritage Emergency Response Network.
Who We Are
The Seattle Heritage Emergency Response Network (SHERN) is a regional coalition of library, archives, and museum professionals dedicated to protecting collections from disaster throughout the greater Seattle area.
Through mutual aid, training, and coordinated response, we strengthen the resilience of our region’s material history.
Our Mission
SHERN’s mission is to provide response support, preparedness training, and collaborative resources to cultural heritage institutions before, during, and after emergencies.
What We Do
Mutual Aid Response
When disaster strikes, whether from water intrusion, fire, environmental failure, or other emergencies, SHERN mobilizes to assist affected institutions. Our network provides hands-on stabilization support and guidance in the critical early hours of response.
Preparedness Training
We offer workshops, tabletop exercises, and skill-building opportunities to help institutions develop and refine their disaster plans. Preparedness reduces damage, shortens recovery time, and protects irreplaceable materials.
Resource Sharing
SHERN facilitates equipment and supply sharing, and knowledge exchange across member institutions. By pooling resources, we increase regional capacity and reduce vulnerability.
Community Building
Emergencies are stressful. A strong professional network makes response more effective and recovery more sustainable. SHERN fosters collaboration and trust across institutions large and small.
Our Approach
SHERN is built on a collaborative mutual-aid model:
- Institutions join the network as members
- Members commit to supporting one another
- Trained responders assist peers during emergencies
- Shared learning strengthens the entire region
Leadership & Governance
SHERN is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of professionals from regional cultural institutions. Board leadership focuses on strategic growth, training initiatives, partnership development, and strengthening long-term sustainability.
Our work is powered by the generosity, expertise, and commitment of our members.
Join the Network
Whether you are a small historical society or a major collecting institution, SHERN provides access to training, response support, and a community committed to preservation.
Contact shernmembership@gmail.com to learn more, or click here to view our one-page informational.
2026-2028 Board Members
- Chairperson: Jules Irick, Seattle Municipal Archives
- Vice-Chairperson/Treasurer: Camille Davidson, Catholic Archdiocese of Seattle
- Secretary: Sean Lanksbury, Seattle Public Library
Seattle Heritage Emergency Response Network 