Innovation and Responsibility

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 11 views

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on various aspects of life, including library services. In the midst of this situation, UPT Library of Medan State University (Unimed) has implemented a number of strategies to continue to provide services to its users. This study examines how library user service strategies are applied during the pandemic with a focus on efforts to utilize information technology and digital services.

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced libraries to adapt to new circumstances and find innovative ways to provide services to their users. In Indonesia, libraries have been affected by the pandemic, with many having to close their physical doors and shift to online services. The UPT Library of Medan State University is no exception, and this study aims to explore the strategies implemented by the library to continue providing services to its users.

Methodology

This study was carried out using descriptive qualitative methods. Researchers collected data through observation, interviews, and documentation. The research informants consisted of the Head of Functional Division, User Service Coordinator, Circulation Staff, and Reference Staff. The data collected was analyzed to identify the strategies implemented by the UPT Library of Medan State University to provide services to its users during the pandemic.

Results

The results of this study showed that the UPT Library of Medan State University succeeded in adapting its services using various digital platforms. One of the main strategies implemented was the provision of digital services. In the midst of social restrictions, the library utilized the Online Public Access Catalog System (OPAC) to facilitate users in finding and accessing library collections. In addition, the application of the Unimed Library System is an important tool in facilitating borrowing and returning books online, which of course reduces the risk of spreading viruses.

Digital Services

The UPT Library of Medan State University has implemented various digital services to provide access to library collections and facilitate borrowing and returning books online. The Online Public Access Catalog System (OPAC) is an important tool in facilitating users in finding and accessing library collections. The OPAC allows users to search for books, journals, and other library materials, and also provides information on the availability of materials.

Social Media

The UPT Library of Medan State University also utilizes social media as a communication channel. By using platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, the library is able to reach users with the latest information, promotion of activities, and consulting services. This approach not only increases user involvement, but also provides easy access to information needed in a difficult time.

Innovation and Responsibility

Through this service strategy, the UPT Library of Medan State University shows innovation and responsibility in facing the challenges caused by the pandemic. The use of information technology not only helps the library to operate, but also maintain connectivity between the library and its users. This adaptation is a valuable lesson for libraries throughout Indonesia about the importance of readiness in dealing with emergency situations.

Conclusion

This study has shown that the UPT Library of Medan State University has implemented various strategies to provide services to its users during the pandemic. The use of digital services and social media has enabled the library to maintain connectivity with its users and provide access to library collections. This study is expected to provide inspiration for other libraries in developing effective service strategies in the future.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Libraries should be prepared to adapt to new circumstances and find innovative ways to provide services to their users.
The use of digital services and social media is crucial in maintaining connectivity between the library and its users.
Libraries should invest in information technology to ensure the sustainability of library services.
Libraries should develop effective service strategies to provide access to library collections and facilitate borrowing and returning books online.

Limitations

This study has several limitations. The study was carried out using descriptive qualitative methods, which may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the strategies implemented by the UPT Library of Medan State University. Additionally, the study was limited to the UPT Library of Medan State University, and may not be generalizable to other libraries.

Future Research

Future research should focus on exploring the effectiveness of digital services and social media in providing access to library collections and facilitating borrowing and returning books online. Additionally, research should be conducted to identify the challenges faced by libraries in implementing digital services and social media, and to develop strategies to overcome these challenges.

References

[List of references cited in the study]

Appendix

[Appendix materials, such as raw data, interview transcripts, and survey results]
Q&A: Library User Service Strategy in Dealing with Pandemi Covid-19 at UPT Library of Medan State University =============================================================================================

Q: What is the main goal of the UPT Library of Medan State University's service strategy during the pandemic? A: The main goal of the UPT Library of Medan State University's service strategy during the pandemic is to provide access to library collections and facilitate borrowing and returning books online, while maintaining connectivity between the library and its users.

Q: How did the UPT Library of Medan State University adapt its services during the pandemic? A: The UPT Library of Medan State University adapted its services by implementing various digital platforms, including the Online Public Access Catalog System (OPAC) and the Unimed Library System. The library also utilized social media as a communication channel to reach users with the latest information, promotion of activities, and consulting services.

Q: What are the benefits of using digital services and social media in library services? A: The benefits of using digital services and social media in library services include increased user involvement, easy access to information, and reduced risk of spreading viruses. Digital services and social media also enable libraries to maintain connectivity with their users and provide access to library collections.

Q: How can libraries prepare for emergency situations like the pandemic? A: Libraries can prepare for emergency situations like the pandemic by investing in information technology, developing effective service strategies, and being prepared to adapt to new circumstances.

Q: What are the challenges faced by libraries in implementing digital services and social media? A: The challenges faced by libraries in implementing digital services and social media include limited resources, lack of technical expertise, and difficulty in reaching users who are not familiar with digital technologies.

Q: How can libraries overcome the challenges of implementing digital services and social media? A: Libraries can overcome the challenges of implementing digital services and social media by investing in training and development programs for library staff, seeking technical assistance from experts, and developing strategies to reach users who are not familiar with digital technologies.

Q: What is the importance of readiness in dealing with emergency situations like the pandemic? A: Readiness is crucial in dealing with emergency situations like the pandemic because it enables libraries to adapt quickly to new circumstances and provide services to their users. Libraries that are prepared for emergency situations can maintain connectivity with their users and provide access to library collections.

Q: How can libraries develop effective service strategies to provide access to library collections and facilitate borrowing and returning books online? A: Libraries can develop effective service strategies to provide access to library collections and facilitate borrowing and returning books online by investing in information technology, developing digital services and social media platforms, and being prepared to adapt to new circumstances.

Q: What is the role of social media in library services? A: Social media plays a crucial role in library services by enabling libraries to reach users with the latest information, promotion of activities, and consulting services. Social media also enables libraries to maintain connectivity with their users and provide access to library collections.

Q: How can libraries use social media to promote their services and activities? A: Libraries can use social media to promote their services and activities by creating engaging content, using hashtags to reach a wider audience, and collaborating with other libraries and organizations to promote their services and activities.

Q: What is the importance of user involvement in library services? A: User involvement is crucial in library services because it enables libraries to understand the needs and preferences of their users and provide services that meet those needs. User involvement also enables libraries to maintain connectivity with their users and provide access to library collections.

Q: How can libraries involve their users in library services? A: Libraries can involve their users in library services by conducting user surveys and feedback sessions, creating user groups and committees, and providing opportunities for users to participate in decision-making processes.

Q: What is the future of library services in the digital age? A: The future of library services in the digital age is exciting and full of possibilities. Libraries will continue to evolve and adapt to new technologies and user needs, providing access to library collections and facilitating borrowing and returning books online. Libraries will also continue to play a crucial role in promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.