Empowering students in COVID-19 Pandemic: Digital Literacy initiatives in Indian Higher Education Libraries

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to the education sector worldwide, including Indian higher education institutions. Libraries, as crucial academic support centres, had to rapidly adapt to continue serving their communities. This paper examines the digital literacy initiatives undertaken by higher education libraries in India during the pandemic to empower students. It explores the various strategies employed to enhance digital literacy, ensuring students could effectively navigate and utilize digital resources. The study highlights the transition from traditional in-person services to virtual platforms, the introduction of online workshops and training sessions, and the development of digital repositories and e-resources. By evaluating these initiatives, the paper aims to demonstrate how libraries have played a pivotal role in supporting students' academic needs amidst the crisis, ultimately fostering a more digitally literate and resilient student body