Libraries Rediscovered During COVID-19: Digital Services Surge
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Italian libraries defied expectations of decline, experiencing a revival. There was a notable rise in digital lending, online courses, webinars, and social media reading groups. The MLOL platform recorded an increase of 3 million consultations and loans during the lockdown. Libraries expanded their services by creating original content, providing remote assistance, hosting gaming events, and even offering online beer-tasting courses (e.g., CSBNO). They reached out to isolated seniors and children with thousands of phone calls. Significant initiatives included the Rete delle Reti, a network comprising over 30 library systems, and collaborations with local businesses for book distribution. The article highlights libraries' evolution into cultural hubs while pursuing EU funding. Authors: Stefano Monti, Gianni Stefanini, Simona Villa.
Key facts
- MLOL recorded 3 million more consultations and loans during lockdown vs. previous year
- Fax technology patented in 1843, adopted by AT&T in 1925, but exploded in sales between 1982 and 1987
- CSBNO held online beer-tasting courses
- Rete delle Reti brought together over 30 Italian library networks during COVID
- Libraries made thousands of phone calls to elderly and children
- Digital services include original content, webinars, gaming, and reading groups on Facebook
- Partnerships with newsstands and local shops for book distribution
- Article published on Artribune on May 2020
Entities
Artists
- Stefano Monti
- Gianni Stefanini
- Simona Villa
Institutions
- Artribune
- MLOL (Media Library on Line)
- CSBNO
- Rete delle Reti
- AT&T
Locations
- Italy