Abstract:

This paper examines a new and unprecedented situation facing many libraries today and focuses on their possible responses. In particular, it presents the capabilities of the National Library “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in providing digital services to its users in times of crisis.

Different actions undertaken by the managing bodies of the libraries that participated in ALA’s (American Library Association) webinar “Libraries and Covid-19: managing strategies and stress” are also presented. These discussions are a way to formulate problems and, at the same time, to help find solutions.

The paper also investigates the different ways to protect library employees and preserve literary and documentary heritage, while maintaining readers’ interest in the library services and promoting their use.

Thus, the current situation has challenged library workers all over the world to re-evaluate their everyday work and to find ways to undertake it effectively from home. Moreover, it is clear to everyone that, given the circumstances, more challenges lie ahead of us.

Keywords:

COVID-19, library management, challenges, online service, literary heritage preservation.