The GHI team discusses project with Tsering Phuntsok (far left, above), the senior mason who worked on the original temple construction, over tea served by Tibetan monks during a visit in September 2006

GHI has recently received a $160,000 grant from the Flora Family Foundation to begin addressing the earthquake risks at the LTWA. As part of this effort, GHI will work with the library leadership to develop appropriate engineering measures to protect the main library building, its occupants, and its collections; and to develop a plan to integrate seismic safety improvements with the library's future facilities needs. GHI will also work with members of the library community to increase their awareness of earthquake risks and how to reduce those risks. This community includes monks, library staff, and the families of library staff. Engineering studies of the main building are now underway, and the design phase should be completed within the year. GHI views this work as a stepping stone to strengthening other vulnerable structures in the community and broader efforts to improve the earthquake safety of the dispersed Tibetan people.