Library Experiences During COVID-19: From Crisis and Uncertainty to Moving Forward in the New Normal

Abstract

As the effects of COVID-19 spread across the nation universities and libraries struggled to devise new ways to maintain and deliver physical services while transitioning to a completely online environment. The primary challenges and obstacles to moving classes and services entirely online included technology and internet access issues. The university and library responded with online tutorials, free resources, webinars, and direct answers through social media.  Since working from home became the “new normal,†maintaining a routine and staying connected became essential.  As libraries moved to develop phased reopening plans it is vital to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines and to devise clear protection procedures for the health and well-being of the library staff and patrons.  Libraries will continue to deliver services and remain an enduring symbol of strength and stability in uncertain times.

            Keywords: COVID-19, library, university, Northwestern State University, new normal, students, faculty, challenges, student worker, online, technology, access, Wi-Fi, Facebook, social media, home office, schedule, organization, Zoom, webinars, guidelines, procedures, reopening, ALA, CDC, LOUIS, IMLS