Ideas for pivoting during the pandemic

CHICAGO — When the pandemic suddenly forced many public libraries to close their doors or limit patron access, library staff redoubled their efforts to serve their communities in every way possible. Demonstrating their resilience by quickly pivoting to new modes of service, public libraries are continuing to offer innovative yet practical ways to connect patrons to the information and services they need and enjoy. Published by ALA Editions in collaboration with the Public Library Association (PLA), the new book “Pivoting during the Pandemic: Ideas for Serving Your Community Anytime, Anywhere,” shares how several libraries transitioned to virtual and socially-distanced services. No matter your library’s current situation or outlook for the future, you’ll be inspired to adapt their ideas to suit the needs of your own organization. Edited by Kathleen M. Hughes and Jamie Santoro, this collection (available in both print and e-book formats) explores initiatives and topics such as:

• homebound delivery;
• citizen science programs;
• virtual reference advice;
• services to small businesses;
• remote readers' advisory and book chats;
• early literacy storytimes;
• health services outreach;
• tech guidance for patrons;
• wifi hotspot lending; and
• tips for social media and marketing.

Hughes is Manager, Publications, for PLA. Responsible for Public Libraries magazine, she serves as its editor, and also manages PLA's publications program. Santoro is a Senior Acquisitions Editor at ALA Editions | ALA Neal-Schuman. Her areas of focus are public libraries and school libraries. The Public Library Association (PLA) is a division of the American Library Association. PLA’s core purpose is to strengthen public libraries and their contribution to the communities they serve. Its mission is to enhance the development and effectiveness of public library staff and public library services.

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