COVID-19 pandemic and role of libraries

• Published in: Library management Vol. 42; no. 4/5; pp. 302 - 304
• Main Author: Ameen, Kanwal
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bradford Emerald Publishing Limited 20.05.2021; Emerald Group Publishing Limited
• Subjects: Academic libraries; Access to materials; Coronaviruses; COVID-19; Developing countries; Digital divide; Digital literacy; Distance learning; Information professionals; Infrastructure; Internet resources; LDCs; Online instruction; Pandemics; School environment; Social networks; Students; Teaching; User services; Virtual private networks; Pakistan; Digital literacy; Developing countries; Pandemic; University libraries; Digital divide; Libraries and COVID
• ISSN: 0143-5124; 1758-7921
• DOI: 10.1108/LM-01-2021-0008

PurposeThe purpose was to address the role of libraries in the worst-case scenario, with specific reference of developing countries like Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachThe paper is based on the author's observations, readings, and personal communications with colleaguesFindingsThe paper provides a viewpoint on how a developing country like Pakistan has been dealing with the situation and highlights the opportunities provided by this unusual situation. It highlights that various stakeholders have realized the need to bridge the digital divide in order to meet future challenges.Practical implicationsThe paper is limited generally to developing countries and specifically to Pakistan. It establishes the dire need for innovative approaches in library services to meet the seen and unforeseen challenges. If suggestions are considered, then the libraries may be in a better position to serve under challenging circumstances.Originality/valueThis is an original work written to address the worst-case scenario of a developing country.