In times of crisis, libraries play an invaluable role in supporting their communities both in-person and virtually.
Academic, public and school libraries are on the front lines of the COVID-19 response and are providing library users with the resources needed to care for people whose lives have been disrupted by closures, job loss, and sickness.
Despite library closures, libraries remain at the forefront of digital equity by offering digital content and remote services, accurate information and the guidance of information experts - librarians.
This press kit provides a snapshot of how libraries and the American Library Association (ALA) are responding to COVID-19 as well as relevant library facts and figures.
Media interested in speaking with ALA experts may contact Macey Morales, deputy director, ALA Communications and Marketing Office (CMO), mmorales@ala.org, or Steve Zalusky, communications specialist, CMO, szalusky@ala.org .
For information regarding COVID-19 legislative efforts please contact Shawnda Hines, assoc. director of communications, ALA Public Policy and Advocacy Office, shines@alawash.org.
How libraries can help families during COVID-19, ABC NEWS, September 10, 2020
Kirby McCurtis, president of, Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the ALA, explains why people should turn to libraries more than ever during the pandemic.
Press Releases
Survey: Libraries examine phased building re-opening, prepare summer programs
Public libraries launch, expand services during COVID-19 pandemic
COVID-19 federal relief package supports libraries’ role in digital inclusion
American Library Association cancels 2020 Annual Conference due to COVID-19
American Library Association recommends libraries leave WiFi open during closures
ALA Executive Board recommends closing libraries to public
APALA condemns rise in xenophobia and racism due to the novel Coronavirus outbreak
Libraries Respond
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Follow #LibrariesStrong for more examples of how libraries are responding to COVID-19 .
Library Closures
*Map results created through a library staff crowdsourcing effort and should be viewed as anecdotal.
There is not an industry consensus on when to close a library. Libraries manage their spaces in accordance with health guidelines and local emergency response. Libraries are not required to report closures to the ALA. The above map should be viewed as a snapshot of library closures in the US and its territories.
Additional Resources
How many Libraries are in the US?
ALA Pandemic Preparedness Resources
COVID-19 - Translated language resources available for libraries to communicate with communities
Combating Xenophobia and Fake News in Light of COVID-19
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CDC Emergency Partners Information Connection (EPIC)
National Network of Libraries of Medicine, Regional Medical Libraries