The Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Academic Libraries in a Crisis Situation. Experiences of the University of Warsaw Library
The Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Academic Libraries in a Crisis Situation. Experiences of the University of Warsaw Library

Summary/Abstract: Purpose/Thesis: This study investigates how the crisis situation caused by the spread of COVID-19 influenced the work of library information and IT systems, with the University of Warsaw Library (BUW) as a case study. Approach/Methods: The case study method was applied as it seemed to be the most appropriate for the purpose of this research. Five main areas of investigation were defined and then analyzed.Results and conclusions: The use of the library’s ICTs changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which mostly involved intensified use of such technologies. The study demonstrated the success of the shift to online service provision which will most likely continue even after the library reopens. The study also showed that a well-organized academic library which may easily move its services online in the case of a lockdown, is indispensable to support teaching and research. Practical implications: This study can serve other academic libraries in Poland and abroad seeking to compare the solutions they introduced with BUW’s most successful practices, so that they will be better prepared in case of the expected second wave of coronavirus which may bring more lockdowns. Originality/Value: This study adds to the existing literature on the phenomenon of COVID-19 and libraries-related issues. However, unlike the majority of studies, it focuses more on information systems, electronic resources, and services hubs rather than on the library perceived as a public space and store of printed publications.

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