NARODNE KNJIŽNICE U DOBA KRIZNIH SITUACIJA: KNJIŽNIČNI PROGRAMI I USLUGE NA DALJINU NARODNE KNJIŽNICE „PETAR PRERADOVIĆ" BJELOVAR.

Purpose. The paper presents library programs and remote services of the Public Library "Petar Preradović" Bjelovar during the COVID-19 epidemic in the period from March 16 to April 24, 2020, when the library was physically closed to users. The adapting of the library to emergency situations in the context of designing and implementing remote services is considered, as well as the remote communication of the library with its users using communication media and channels based on information and communication technology. Methodology. The methodological approach to the topic is presented in the research of the literature related to library management in crises and distance library services. Furthermore, an important topic covered by the literature is the media communication of libraries in crisis situations. This paper brings a synthesis of this research, i.e. a critical reflection on the topic with some examples of good practice. Results. By inspecting the relevant professional and scientific literature and through examples of good practice, it was noticed that the remote services provided in public libraries could more or less successfully implement various services that do not require physical presence of the users in the library. Likewise, these services can be further promoted and developed in collaboration with the local joint media programs, with the help of communication channels based on information and communication technology. Value. The paper emphasizes the importance of adapting library operations to extraordinary situations, in this case the COVID-19 epidemic, both in theory and in practice. Furthermore, the paper highlights examples of good practice that should serve as an example to other librarians in setting guidelines for designing and implementing distance services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]