Author: Sanjay Kumar Suman
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/03020002
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted traditional academic services, compelling libraries to adopt Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to ensure the continuity of learning and research. This study explores the impact of ICT adoption in academic libraries during the pandemic, identifies key digital tools that facilitated remote learning and research, and examines the evolving role of library professionals in managing ICT-driven services. Utilizing content analysis, the study reviews existing literature, case studies, and institutional reports to assess the effectiveness of ICT-based library services. Findings indicate that digital repositories, virtual reference services, learning management systems, and cloud-based platforms played a crucial role in sustaining academic activities. Additionally, library professionals had to rapidly adapt to new digital competencies, redefining their roles in an ICT-intensive environment. While ICT adoption enhanced accessibility and service delivery, challenges such as the digital divide, technical constraints, and inadequate ICT training persisted. The study highlights the long-term implications of ICT integration in libraries and suggests strategies to enhance digital library services for future academic resilience.
Keywords: ICT in libraries, Academic Services, Remote Learning, Digital Tools, COVID-19, Digital Transformation.
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