Libraries across the world locked down under national restrictions to halt the spread of COVID-19 found innovative ways of continuing services, keeping in touch with communities and joining coronavirus prevention strategies. We are delighted to name the winners of the 14th EIFL Public Library Innovation Award for public library services responding to COVID-19 -

Congratulations to –

• Kaunas Municipal ‘Vincas Kudirka’ Public Library in Lithuania, whose 3D printers worked day and night to print hands-free door openers to prevent COVID-19 infection and vital protective equipment for medics
• The Main Public Library of Lima in Peru, whose  telephone reading service brought joy to isolated senior citizens 
• City of Johannesburg Libraries in South Africa, which kept their services alive through a COVID-19 lockdown video series on Facebook
• ‘A. Gaidar’ Central City Children's Library in Melitopol, Ukraine, whose ‘children-teach-children' online video art classes helped parents keep their children busy during lockdown

Each winner receives a prize of US$1,500, a certificate and a trophy.

Thank you to the winners and to all the other applicants who sent us stories about their innovative services.

The EIFL Public Library Innovation Awards recognize innovative library services that use ICT to improve lives and livelihoods. The awards are open to all public and community libraries in developing and transition countries.