Abstract

With the unforeseen challenges the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) posed to library services, libraries around the world have transformed the modes by which services are provided to maximize the usage of library resources and services and libraries’ overall contribution to the improvement of literacy. The Ghana Library Authority, in pursuit of its digital literacy drive, introduced literacy initiatives such as Read2Skill, Edmodo, the Digital Library App, automation of the issuing of ISBNs and ISSNs and many others to ensure that access to information goes on through online platforms. The sudden shift of all engagements and interactions to online spaces raised concerns about the preparedness of libraries that have not yet explored the world of digitization in the provision of services, and the challenges associated with working with underserved communities. However, libraries have risen above these concerns to ensure continuity of services to mitigate the effects of the crisis on education. This chapter provides an overview of the impact of the pandemic on library services in Ghana and of the innovative approaches employed to support dissemination of information and opportunities to access reading materials, as well as online teaching and learning, since March 2020.

Keywords:Digital literacy, innovative services, COVID-19.

Introduction

Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) is a state agency under the Ministry of Education with oversight responsibility for public libraries in Ghana. The agency is mandated to establish, equip, manage and maintain public libraries across the country. One of the major responsibilities of GhLA is to provide access to reading and learning materials to inculcate lifelong learning habits among citizens that will help to improve the country's learning outcomes. The organization does this by working jointly with other state actors.

In the space of three years (2017–20) GhLA has increased its library footprint in Ghana from 61 to 90. As part of its core functions, it provides services such as book lending, research support, mobile library, book box, bindery, cataloguing and processing of books, acquisition and distribution of books, software development, a digital library service, conference venue hiring, issuance of International Standard Book Number (ISBN), International Standard Serial Numbers (ISSN) and International Standard Music Numbers (ISMN) and many other functions.