The Impact of COVID-19 on the Use of Academic Library Resources
Overview
Paper Summary
The study found decreased usage of library websites, catalogs, and databases during COVID-19 closures across three universities. However, virtual communication with librarians and interlibrary loan requests increased, suggesting a shift in how students accessed library resources during the pandemic. The impact varied across institutions, with the residential university experiencing the largest decrease in usage.
Explain Like I'm Five
Scientists found that when libraries were closed during COVID, people used their websites less for finding things. But they talked to librarians online more and asked for books from other places, showing they still needed the library in new ways!
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This study provides valuable insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academic library usage. Despite some methodological limitations such as a small sample size, reliance on specific usage metrics, and unquantified external factors, the research offers a starting point for understanding how library usage patterns shifted during unprecedented circumstances. The study's multi-faceted approach, considering various library resources, strengthens its contribution to the field.
Good to know
This is the Starter analysis. Paperzilla Pro fact-checks every citation, researches author backgrounds and funding sources, and uses advanced AI reasoning for more thorough insights.
Explore Pro →