COVID–19 and Library Users: The Role of the Librarians

Abstract

COVID-19 is a pandemic infectious disease that spreads easily. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 spreads through human to human transmission by close contact via airborne droplets generating by coughing, sneezing, kissing, and smooching. This paper examines the roles of the libraries in the dissemination of information in the face of this pandemic. To achieve this, the paper examined the origin of COVID-19, its mode of transmission, symptoms, prevention, and the roles of librarians and information specialists. The paper further acknowledged the roles the libraries should play in every situation they find themselves occasioned by the government in order to curtail the spread of the pandemic. This may be normal situation (ie no restriction); some restrictions; full closure; and preparing for reopening. The paper, therefore, concludes that the librarians have important roles to play in the phase of this pandemic. This is because the librarians need to provide adequate, latest, and accurate information regarding the pandemic, like: statistics on the rate of infections; possible development of vaccine; mode of infection, methods of prevention, etc.