Peculiarities of Libraries’ Activities during COVID-19

Abstract

During the COVID-19 period, libraries gained experience in operating in an extreme pandemic situation and developed a number of adaptation mechanisms for the purpose. The article summarizes this experience and its impact on library activities, including a comparison of Ukrainian and foreign practices. By examining research sources, the author identified and systematized the priority challenges faced by libraries in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic; reviewed new work areas, successful cases, and tools used by libraries to adapt themselves to new conditions; made a comparative analysis of Ukrainian and foreign experience of library adaptation to the pandemic, highlighted common and distinctive features; substantiated promising areas of library work in the post-COVID-19 environment. Particular attention was paid to the development of libraries remote services, in troduction of new digital platforms and tools to provide access to resources remotely. In addition, the issue of professional development of library staff to work in the course of digitalization and the growing role of online communications, was considered. Active cooperation of libraries with various institutions and organizations has be come a key factor in implementing innovative strategies to support education, culture and access to information. These partnerships have combined resources and expertise from different sectors, creating effective programs that have enhanced the role of libraries in public life and meeting population’ educational and cultural needs. Based on a comparative analysis of library experience in adaptation to the pandemic, the best practices and recommendations for further development of libraries in the post pandemic period were identified, including the integration of the latest technologies, expansion of online services, and strengthening of cooperation with other cultural and educational institutions. At the same time, foreign experience has shown the importance of a systematic approach and state support in crisis situations, which helps to ensure the sustainability of library activities and preserve its social function.Thus, the study allows to summarize the experience, identify key areas for improving librarianship in the face of new challenges, and emphasize the importance of flexibility and innovation in modern libraries activities.

Keywords

• novation in modern libraries activities. keywords: libraries, remote services, electronic resources, scientific and information activities of libraries, digitalization, online services, covid-19 pandemic, innovative areas of work, successful practices.