This March marks three years since COVID-19 brought the country to a standstill. In those early days, libraries grappled with the same issues as everyone else: closed buildings, plans put on hold, and diminished access. With this special report, American Libraries takes a look at some libraries’ behind-the-scenes decisions to keep their communities connected and missions fulfilled. Stories cover the early-pandemic adaptations and innovations made by libraries; how those in the profession have changed their approach to fundraising and advocacy; and the unique obstacles faced by communities simultaneously coping with COVID-19 and the effects of natural disasters. (For a deeper understanding of how libraries were affected by COVID-19, read AL’s archived and ongoing coverage.)