EURASLIC Libraries During the Covid-19 Pandemic and Other Disasters

Abstract

Over the decades libraries have encountered challenges in the constantly changing information environment. Libraries adapted quickly, embracing information technology as an opportunity that enables them to offer efficient and modern library services to patrons. Physical library spaces and traditional library services were complemented by digital, thus forming a hybrid library. Although libraries were on their way towards virtual libraries, no one expected that physical space would be closed one day so abruptly and unexpectedly. Libraries around the world were forced to close their doors to the public overnight due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to find out whether EURASLIC libraries were ready for this challenge and how they were coping with the COVID-19 pandemic and whether it was the only disaster they had to deal with in recent times, the EURASLIC Board decided to take a survey. The results of the survey are presented in this paper.