Rendering Library Services Amid the Corona Virus Pandemic: A Case of The Balme Library of the University of Ghana

Abstract

The monumental libraries of the past where users could only assess the resources physically have indeed shifted to the virtual use of materials. Libraries of today are truly more than physical building; all over the world, libraries were forced to shut down their physical buildings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Irrespective of the physical closure, most libraries continued to render invaluable services to their users virtually. The Balme library of the University of Ghana was no exception. Ghana recorded its first suspected Corona Virus case on the 12th of March, 2020. Consequently, the government of the Republic of Ghana ordered the closure of all universities and schools indefinitely on the 16th of March, 2020. Entrenched in a circular signed and distributed by the University’s Registrar on the 21st of March 2020 titled ‘Update on the closure of University’ exempted the University of Ghana Library System and for that matter the Balme Library, from the essential services provided by the University under the circumstances of the pandemic. This led to the physical closure of the Balme Library. The physical building of the Balme Library and all other libraries on the campuses of the university were closed. This notwithstanding, the staff and management of the Balme Library did not relent in providing services to the university community. The library launched deeply into the use of its virtual platforms in providing library services to the university community. This paper provides a catalogue of services rendered to the University community and the public amidst the Covid19 pandemic. These services, among others, include Chat with a Librarian, Off-Campus Access to Databases, Online Chat, Online Databases, Online trainings, article request, institutional repository (UGSpace).