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Purpose. The main goal of this article is to provide a deeper understanding of the potential of the media and information literacy (MIL) to improve education models and processes by utilization of the information and communication technologies (ICT) in the distance learning process in Serbia. Approach/methodology/design. The approach is exploratory and based on the thematic analysis of the open answers of (primary and secondary schools) teachers and librarians about the challenges of online teaching during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic and their needs for additional knowledge and skills in this regard. The research was conducted by the online questionnaire, with ten questions, three of which were open-ended and addressing the research aims. Results. The teachers' and librarians' answers regarding the online teaching challenges were abstracted into six categories: communication issues, information issues, organizational issues, information and communication technologies accessibility issues, knowledge evaluation, and students' motivation issues. Three sets of teachers' needs were also identified: additional knowledge for using digital tools and distance learning online platforms, further development of communication skills in the digital environment, and acquiring additional methods of students' evaluation. Regarding future media and information literacy training, a genuine interest in the education about the critical use of media and online content, as well as production of the new digital formats, has been noted. Limitations. The results of this exploratory study are based on the qualitative thematic analysis and cannot be considered representative of the overall education system in Serbia. However, in the context of the previous research findings, and the diversity of the schools included in this study (26 elementary and high schools), we believe it provides a deeper overview of the online teaching problems and teachers' needs for additional knowledge. Originality/value. Theoretically, by connecting the identified problems and needs of the teachers with the theoretical conception of the MIL, this paper contributes to understanding how different elements of MIL can reflect on improving competencies and efficiency of different professional groups. Furthermore, the results of this study can inform the decision makers in the education sector and could be used to create various educational activities and targeted training for the teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]