The Work of Libraries (Librarians) During the Pandemic on the Example of the Children’s Department of the Belgrade City Library

Abstract

This paper deals with the newly created ways of program activities during the coronavirus pandemic in the period when the Belgrade City Library was temporarily closed. The given legal framework and ways of adjusting the work to the conditions that imply social distance and closing libraries for users due to the spread of the virus and the declaration of a state of emergency are presented. The example of the Children’s Department shows the possibilities that have opened up for working in a virtual environment. The importance of maintaining contacts with users and associates and networking with other cultural workers is emphasized. The challenging situation encouraged new forms of library activities and the opportunity to transfer some of the programs from the real to the virtual space to animate the reading audience. The importance of interacting with the youngest readers is emphasized, as well as the provision of reading recommendations and relevant information in order to prevent the discontinuation of work.