What tasks did the monasteries perform in the early Middle Ages?

In addition to spiritual and religious tasks, monasteries set themselves the goal of preserving various knowledge. That is why the monasteries had the largest and most complete libraries. Many monasteries were also the only place where residents of nearby lands could receive qualified assistance. During the years of poor harvest, monasteries shared their reserves with people, which saved them from starvation. And during the war, people could hide behind the monastery walls, tk. many monasteries were built like fortresses.