Rethinking Library and Information Services amidst Virulent Covid-19 Global Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 global pandemic is a huge learning curve and an opportunity for librarians to renew their interest in what support libraries can offer in times of disaster. The pandemic, with how serious it was, showed how relevant and not obsolete the library is, as some people tend to think. This paper sought to provide an in-depth account of new and innovative library services in response to the pandemic. The pandemic generated a lot of concern among the populace, and people desperately need relevant and curated information to stay calm, safe, and healthy. People would only remain vulnerable to the onslaught of the pandemic if they were not provided with access to verified information. A systematic review of the selected literature indicated that, despite the restrictions, libraries were able to integrate digital technologies into their services for the benefit of the populace. Innovative services were introduced to maintain relevance, which resulted in a continuous increase in online users' engagement. Library websites have also become a place to be for users interested in reading quality content and verifying information. Even though libraries are already reopening to users, there is still a general willingness to continue with online services.