Identification and Prioritization of Strategies for Managing Library Resources and Services in Indian Higher Education in the Post-Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on library operations and services, with many libraries having to adapt quickly to provide more digital resources and services to patrons. This study examines the impact of the pandemic on library services and presents a strategic approach to overcome the challenges faced by libraries during COVID-19. In this study, nine strategic approaches have been identified for managing libraries in the post-COVID period to facilitate efficient library management and offer better services to library users. The Best-Worst Method, a multi-criteria decision-making technique is used to evaluate these strategies and determine their importance in library management. The present study has revealed that the most significant strategies on which libraries will focus in the post-pandemic era are “Academic Library Strategy and Budgeting” and “Promotion of Online Content (e-books, exhibitions, tutorials, events, and concerts).” This research concludes that the pandemic has led to a shift toward digital resources and services, and as a result, libraries need a strategy to continue providing access to information and resources while safeguarding users and employees.