Libraries and the Coronavirus: Evolving Information and Resources

WebJunction /

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak is having a global impact, and affecting local communities. Staff in libraries of all types, geographic locations, and sizes are learning the facts about this public health crisis, informing the public, and adapting services and programming to meet changing community needs. Last update, December 30, 2021.

WebJunction Articles and Events

Library-specific Resource Collections

On Working Remotely and Self-care

The following from PLA, suggested by the PLA Social Worker Task Force

  • The Science of Well-Being: A free, structured online learning course with videos and readings, where you will engage in a series of challenges designed to increase your own happiness and build more productive habits. Offered by Yale University.
  • The Happiness Lab: A podcast by Yale professor Dr Laurie Santos (of The Science of Well-Being course) that will take you through the latest scientific research and share some surprising and inspiring stories that will forever alter the way you think about happiness.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Resource Guide: This COVID-19 resource document addresses questions about anxiety, health insurance, losing a loved one, and more.
  • Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health: This tip sheet from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration describes feelings and thoughts you may have during and after social distancing, quarantine, and isolation. It also suggests ways to care for your behavioral health during these experiences and provides resources for more help."

Virtual Library Programming and Services – Resources and Examples

Materials Handling Information and other Disaster Planning Resources

3D Printing of Medical Equipment – Resources and Examples

Libraries Sharing COVID-19 Information – Examples

Library Closure Information, Data Collection, and Surveys in the Field

There are several initiatives underway to collect information from libraries on how the pandemic is impacting the field. Participating in these data collection efforts and surveys can help colleagues around the country see what similar organizations are doing, and it also can surface needs. If you are able, please consider providing information about your library and help us all stay informed. 

Information and Resources from other sectors, federal, state and local

We will continue to update this list with additional information and resources as library and community responses evolve.

Image credits: "A Healthy Future is in Your Hands", CDC; Coronavirus Facts, Malaka Gharib/ NPR