Library and Information Support Services during COVID-19: A Case Study of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Central Library, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi

Abstract

Covid-19 pandemic has posed challenges to all walks of life and libraries are not exception to that. The paper traces the status and trends in extending library and information services during Covid-19 period. The approaches adopted by LIS professionals to overcome restrictions in libraries and information access such as Online chat, texting, Instant Messaging System (IMS) and other social network platforms have been explored. The paper discusses the policy decisions taken by Jawaharlal Nehru University; Delhi, precautionary measures, and revised plans of the Dr B. R. Ambedkar Central Library taken with regard to physical and digital spaces and library and information services to avoid/minimize challenges posed by Covid-19 pandemic. The virtual services provided during the COVID 19 period in real time through video kiosks, live chat, email or phone are enumerated. The paper explains with the example of JNU Central Library how it continues to assist staff, faculty, researchers and students with finding, using and referencing information relevant to their research or study as well. A detailed account has been given about ‘Digital Tracking System ’, Patron Attendance System, Seating Plan of the JNU Library. The study concludes that increased research and publication activity during the prevailing time has led to intensifying the services relating to online plagiarism check and research support services including reference management. Regular webinars were conducted to orient the users of the University. Dr B R Ambedkar Central library, JNU also initiated the online lecture and workshop on Research Methodology to help the ongoing research of its M. Phil and PhD scholars.