Abstract

The ever-changing demands of users and the continuous advancements in network technologies have fundamentally transformed the roles and perspectives of library professionals. Simultaneously, users have eagerly embraced cutting-edge technologies, raising their expectations for libraries to provide innovative and interactive services. This has created a need for a meticulous and systematic review of existing literature on integrating emerging technologies into library services, drawing from various online databases and forms the subject of the current article. The study is a comprehensive investigation that delves into multiple facets of emerging technologies, including, but not limited to, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, augmented reality, virtual reality, blockchain, chatbots, and robotics. The literature was carefully curated using the PRISMA methodology, a rigorous approach for systematic literature reviews. The selected studies underwent thorough scrutiny, focusing on essential attributes such as authorship, scope, methodology, and sampling techniques. This systematic review empowers the authors to provide an exhaustive and insightful analysis of how diverse emerging technologies can enhance and enrich existing library services and operations. The study elucidates the multifaceted challenges and influential factors associated with integrating emerging technologies into library services. Furthermore, it strategically formulates practical implications to address and overcome these challenges. This systematic review is an invaluable guide, offering librarians the knowledge and insights they need to embrace emerging technologies in their libraries effectively. It equips them to remain abreast with the latest technological advancements, thereby transforming traditional library services into smart, forward-thinking services that meet the information needs of today's discerning users.

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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41 (3): 1–10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v41i3.14967

Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

Ajani, Y. A., et al. 2022. Perspectives of librarians on awareness and readiness of academic libraries to integrate artificial intelligence for library operations and services in Nigeria. Internet Reference Services Quarterly 26 (4): 213–230. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10875301.2022.2086196

Ali, M. Y., et al. 2022. Artificial intelligence application in university libraries of Pakistan: SWOT analysis and implications. Global Knowledge, Memory, and Communication (in press). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/gkmc-12-2021-0203

Andrews, J. E., H. Ward, and J. Yoon. 2021. UTAUT is a model for understanding the intention to adopt AI and related technologies among librarians. The Journal of Academic Librarianship 47 (6): 102437. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acalib.2021.102437

Ashiq, M., F. Jabeen, and K. Mahmood K. 2022. Transformation of libraries during Covid-19 pandemic: a systematic review. The Journal of Academic Librarianship 48 (4): 102534. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acalib.2022.102534

Asim, M., M. Arif, and M. Rafiq. 2022. Applications of Internet of Things in university libraries of Pakistan: an empirical investigation. The Journal of Academic Librarianship 48 (6): 102613. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acalib.2022.102613

Andrews, J. E., H. Ward, and J. Yoon. 2021. UTAUT is a model for understanding the intention to adopt AI and related technologies among librarians. The Journal of Academic Librarianship 47 (6): 102437. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acalib.2021.102437

Bossart, J. L., S. R. Gonzalez, and N. Bharti. 2019. Retrospective analysis of a sustainable 3D printing service in an academic library. Library Hi Tech. 37 (4): 669–678. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-12-2018-0196

Clark, J. L. and Z. Lischer-Katz. 2023.  Accessibility and the technocratic library: addressing institutional failures in library adoption of emerging technologies. First Monday. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v28i1.12928

Cook, M., et al. 2019. Challenges and strategies for educational virtual reality: results of an expert-led forum on 3D/VR technologies across academic institutions. Information Technology and Libraries 38 (4): 25–48. DOI: https://doi.org/10.6017/ITAL.V38I4.11075

Cox, A. M., S. Pinfield, and S. Rutter. 2019. The intelligent library. Library Hi Tech. 37 (3): 418–435. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-08-2018-0105

Dalili, S. M., et al. 2021. Augmented reality technology in the libraries of universities of medical sciences: identifying the application, advantages and challenges and presenting a model. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1782–1795. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-01-2021-0033

Dube, T. V. and L. Jacobs. 2023. Academic library services extension during the COVID-19 pandemic: considerations in higher education institutions in the Gauteng Province, South Africa. Library Management 44 (1/2): 17–39. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lm-04-2022-0039

Emiri, O. T. 2023. Adoption and utilization of artificial intelligence by librarians in university libraries in southern Nigeria. Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal) 7570: 1–17. Details available at <https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/libphilprac/7570?utm_source=digitalcommons.unl.edu%2Flibphilprac%2F7570&utm_medium=PDF&utm_campaign=PDFCoverPages>, last accessed on 3 August 2023

Goel, P. 2022. Consumers' adoption of artificial intelligence and robotics in hospitality and tourism sector: literature review and future research agenda; Tourism Review 77 (4): 1081–96. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/tr-03-2021-0138

Gough, D., J. Thomas, and S. Oliver. 2019. Clarifying differences between reviews within evidence ecosystems. Systematic Reviews 8 (1): 170. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-019-1089-2

Hamad, F., M. Al-Fadel, and H. Fakhouri. 2022. The provision of smart service at academic libraries and associated challenges. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/09610006221114173

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41 (3): 1–10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v41i3.14967

Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229

Emerging technologies play a crucial role in growth and innovations. Like other fields, libraries must embrace emerging technologies. The emerging technologies category encompasses a wide array of new and reimagined technologies that can be valuable to libraries. "With the rise of technology, academic libraries have had to adapt to the changing needs of their users by incorporating new technologies" (Hamad, et al. 2022). Digital-age users are increasingly tech-savvy and want quick and easy access to scholarly information from remote locations, leading to a shift away from traditional library services. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), drones, 3D printing, big data, augmented reality, and virtual reality (VR) are emerging technologies that have been changing the landscape of libraries in this decade. Librarians have also thought about their roles and responsibilities differently.

During the last few decades, the advancement of technology and its features have radically changed. Most of the areas are trying to shift from manual to digital. The ratio of information and communication technology (ICT) skills among the general population is also increasing rapidly. Libraries are also adopting these emerging technologies to provide information promptly to tech-savvy users. Libraries in developed countries have successfully provided advanced services using emerging technology. However, it is very challenging for developing countries with poor infrastructure, unskilled manpower, nostalgic authority, lack of policies, budget constraints, and unawareness to demotivate libraries and librarians. The repeated addition of new features and emerging applications has also threatened librarians' ability to sharpen their knowledge, skills, and competency. Even though emerging technology positively impacts libraries, it creates a huge digital divide between librarians and users in developing countries. Many researchers have studied the potential of emerging technologies in the library. Hence, we mapped the literature to understand which topics have been covered, discussed possible future scenarios, and provided a future agenda.

As technology evolves, libraries must incorporate basic and advanced systems. However, each technology offers new features, making it challenging to keep up. Web 2.0 has influenced library systems and services for some time, but now the trend is shifting towards adopting Web 3.0 applications, considered emerging technologies in the market. These include blockchain, drones, AI, IoT, big data, robotics, chatGPT, and chatbots, which are hot library topics, and have been widely implemented in the health and industrial sectors. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact of emerging technology on university libraries. This systematic review aims to contribute to the literature by analyzing the latest trends in scholarly literature and assessing how emerging technology is incorporated into university library sources and services.

The study addressed the following questions:

1. What are the various emerging technologies adopted by libraries?


2. What are the major purposes of using emerging technologies in academic libraries?


3. What are the various factors affecting the adoption of emerging technologies in libraries?


4. What are the multiple challenges faced by library professionals in using emerging technologies?


5. What are the practical implications of libraries adopting emerging technologies?

The study, being discussed, applies a systematic literature review to critically analyze the published literature on emerging technologies adopted in academic libraries. "The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-20) guideline is adopted to screen the literature systematically. The PRISMA guidelines enable investigators to report evidence-based items that are useful for critical appraisal of published literature systematically" (Moher, et al. 2009; Ashiq, et al. 2022). The four-element framework followed to accomplish this study encompasses: (i) determining the reviewed questions; (ii) scoping the reviewed areas; (iii) reviewing and examining the existing research base; and (iv) formulation of the systematic observed evidence derived from the reviewed studies. In addition, the PRISMA 2020 checklist is also used to screen the collected literature and formulate systematic observations.

For this systematic study, search and select repeatedly used keywords from the most cited article on Google Scholar.

The next step is to design a search strategy to identify relevant literature, review it with the professor as a co-author, and make corrections.

After making some corrections, the given-below search strategy was finalized.

'Emerging technology*' OR 'Disruptive technology*' OR 'Ubiquitous technology*' OR 'Artificial Intelligence' OR Robotics OR 'Internet of Things' OR 'Augmented Reality' OR 'Virtual Reality' OR '3D printing' OR 'Drones' OR 'ChatGpt' OR 'GPT4'  OR 'Chatbot' OR 'Biometrics' OR 'Gamification' AND 'University Library*' OR 'Academic Library*'

Existing literature SLR published by Asiq, et al. (2022), Gough, et al. (2017), and  Goel, et al. (2022) and other papers were also consulted to make the systematized methodology. Researchers consulted with one PhD scholar for descriptive and thematic classification. This study followed the inclusive and exclusive criteria, given in Table 1.

In this stage, we selected 'the Scopus' database to search for the relevant papers because it has framework for selection of papers the largest collection of abstracts and citations of the multidisciplinary subjects of peer-reviewed literature. Scopus indexes a good quality and quantity of library science journals as well. After selecting the database, we consulted for 'search query', 'inclusion and exclusion criteria', and ‘database filter'. Then we ran the query in the search bar using an advanced searching technique using the TITLE-ABS-KEY (title, abstract, and keyword) field and applied the filters as source type: journal; language: English and document type: original full text; publication date: 2018–23. The results showed 47 articles. All the data was exported in EndNote online and as a CSV file on the same day, 20 July 2023.

After reading the titles and abstracts of 80 accessed articles, 53 studies were selected for further full-text reading. Again, non-full-text papers (n = 7) were removed, leaving the remaining 46 articles for full-text reading. A thematic approach in MS Excel to present and synthesize the data was utilized. Each study's findings were retrieved and written in MS Excel. The pertinent themes were developed when all of the research was completed.

The researchers developed a comprehensive search strategy to maximize the retrieval of pertinent literature. In total, 80 records were initially identified, as illustrated in Figure 1. After applying predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 irrelevant records were excluded. Among the remaining records, 29 were deemed both pertinent and potentially valuable. In our quest for full-text articles not accessible within the Scopus and ProQuest databases, we conducted additional searches on Google Scholar and the Google Search Engine. Ultimately, these efforts resulted in the selection of 29 records for meticulous full-text examination.

In total, 29 papers were included in this study, as given in Table 2. Out of these, 16 articles were published with more than two authors, followed by seven studies with two authors and six with single one author. The year 2022 witnessed the highest number of published studies (n = 11), while only three were published in 2019 regarding the latest emerging technology. The USA conducted the most studies (31%), followed by Nigeria (17%), and China (14%). The remaining studies (38%) were conducted in nine other countries, including two collaborative works.

Regarding methodology, most studies (45%) used quantitative techniques, followed by 28% using qualitative techniques. Mixed methods, systems analysis, design, and development were utilized by 10% studies while 7% used case studies. The participants included library professionals, system librarians, archivists, directors, commentators, students, faculty, practitioners, researchers, and technology experts. Purposive sampling was used by over 20% of studies while 6.8% used random sampling. In the methodology section, 63.3% of studies should have mentioned the sampling techniques. The sample size ranged from a maximum of n = 704 to a minimum of n = 4. Questionnaire tools were used for data collection in 38% of studies, 31% used interview schedules, and 27.6% used other tools.

The  findings as given in Table 2 reveal that among 29 studies, 11 were related to artificial intelligence (AI) (Ajani, et al. 2022, Ali, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023, Cox, et al. 2019, Emiri 2023, Harisanty, et al. 2022, Hervieux 2021, Lund, et al. 2020, Pang and Dou 2023, Yoon, et al. 2022), two were related to IoTs (Asim, et al. 2022, Khan, et al. 2021a), one was associated to 3D printing (Bossart, et al. 2019), two were related to chatbots (Dube and Jacobs 2023, Rodriguaz and Mune 2022), two were associated to VR (Huber, et al. 2020, Hurrell and Baker 2020), two were related to augmented reality (Kannegiser 2021, Saleh, et al. 2021), two were related to blockchain (Khan, et al. 2022b, Tella, et al. 2022), one was associated to robotics (Owolabi, et al. 2022), one was related to gamification (Reed and Miller 2020), one was related to deep learning (Liu 2023), one was related to machine learning (Wang 2022), one was associated with the combination of 3D and VR (Cook, et al. 2019), one was associated with the variety of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) (Roy, et al. 2022), and one was related to emerging technology applications (Saibakumo 2021).

The integrative review (a reference to conclusions) of the selected 29 studies is divided into five major sections according to research questions. The ensuing sections deal with the same.

The libraries can utilize various emerging technologies in different operations and provide multiple services. The advancement in networked and communication technologies has given birth to various specific new technologies. Business organizations are always in the race to adopt new technologies to cater to their consumers' needs and demands in every possible way. This approach also allows non-profit organizations to adopt new technologies as they become relevant to their audience. Libraries as social, service-oriented, and non-profit organizations are the same in the environment. The review finds many emerging technologies applied in the libraries for various services. AI is the most described technology in the reviewed studies. AI is organizations' latest technology worldwide for large data analysis, decision-making, and management (Yoon, et al. 2022). Libraries also apply AI to many innovative services to meet users' needs (Ali, et al. 2022) and reduce human error in delivering various services (Ajani, et al. 2022). Following artificial intelligence, other technologies include the IoT, 3D printing, chatbots, VR, augmented reality, blockchain, robotics, gamification, deep learning, and machine learning. These technological advancements are the products of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Yoon, et al. 2022), which can impact the library trinity (users, staff, and resources). All these emerging technologies are helpful for libraries in providing extended information services (Saibakumo 2021) that will lead to the transformation of library functions and services (Yoon, et al. 2022).

All technological advancements and innovations have a direct impact on society. Community members are becoming dynamic and explorative in adopting, using, and applying new technologies. Libraries, as social service institutions, are directly connected with community members. Timely services and user satisfaction should be the main concerns of any library. Adopting new technologies makes the library relevant to its stakeholders (users, parent institute, and community). Libraries are adopting various new and emerging technologies in different services and operations. AI is the most important emerging technology in the reviewed studies. The main application of AI in libraries is developing reliable decision-making tools to deliver innovative and instant services to users (Hervieux 2021; Ali, et al. 2022; Wang 2022). AI is helping libraries enhance accessibility (Cook, et al. 2019) by providing 'AI-powered search and resource discovery, scholarly publishing, and learning tools' (Cox, et al. 2019). AI is helping libraries develop immersive and interactive environments for the users (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) through reference services, welcoming guests (Emiri 2023), recommendation of materials (Lund, et al. 2020; Liu 2023), supporting research and learning activities (Harisanty, et al. 2022), information discovery, user support (Hervieux 2021), and personalized user services (Pang and Dou 2023). There are various other operations and services that have the application of AI, such as user mapping, collection security, surveillance (Emiri 2023), optimizing library resources (Harisanty, et al. 2022), resource management (Hervieux 2021), library search, cataloguing, reference services (Lund, et al. 2020), and resource allocation (Pang and Dou 2023). Librarians have positive perceptions of the adoption of AI and find it helpful in performing their tasks (Andrews, et al. 2021) as the adoption of AI saves the time of staff on repetitive tasks (Cox, et al. 2019) and also reduces the possibilities of human errors (Ajani, et al. 2022). Another technology is the IoT, which is improving library services and enhancing the user experience through facilitating innovation, reducing costs, time-saving, pacing with trends (Asim, et al. 2022), inventory management, tracing the movement of resources, and overcoming technological challenges (Khan, et al. 2021a). To keep users engaged and immersed, augmented reality (AR) will help the libraries in user orientation through library navigations and instructions (Kannegiser 2021) and promote information literacy among users (Saleh, et al. 2021). Gamification supporting AR will provide users with a personalized environment for skill development, awareness, and orientation (Reed and Miller 2020; Roy, et al. 2022). The VR is the technology that enhances the accessibility to the library's digital collection, information and learning resources by providing an interactive and immersive environment (Cook, et al. 2019, Hurrell and Baker 2020, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Three-dimensional and VR are supporting libraries in developing teaching, learning, and research tools (Bossart, et al. 2019; Cook, et al. 2019; Roy, et al. 2022) that are collaborative, problem-solving, interdisciplinary, motivational (Huber, et al. 2020), student-centred (Hurrell and Baker 2020) and constructive (Cook, et al. 2019) in nature. Some other emerging technologies impacting libraries include chatbots that can be used for 24×7 non-staffed reference service (Rodriguez and Mune 2022) and remote service delivery during emergencies (Dube and Jacobs 2023). Blockchain technology provides additional security to libraries, facilitating resource organization and quality service in interactive (Khan, et al. 2022b) and distributed settings (Tella, et al. 2022). Further, robotics will ensure innovative automation in library operations and service delivery (Owolabi, et al. 2022).

The adoption of emerging technologies in libraries is affected by many factors. These factors define to what extent libraries are or intend to adopt new technologies. The main element is the readiness of library professionals to integrate emerging technologies into libraries. They have mixed feelings or low intentions towards using new technology (Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022). Adopting new technologies requires adequate infrastructure in terms of hardware and software. Lack of budget and dynamism in the ways of accessing and organizing resources may be the reason behind the low intention of library professionals towards new technologies. However, academic libraries are trying very hard to adopt new technologies, however, some factors related to ethical concerns need to catch up (Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). Training is the major factor that can alter all other aspects of resisting adopting new technologies. Library professionals are highly aware of emerging technologies and their uses (Hervieux 2021; Saibakumo 2021; Yoon, et al. 2022). Only they require more training in incorporating new technologies (Hervieux 2021). Again, "proper training will ensure robust management practices and effective utilization of technological resources" (Khan, et al. 2021a).

According to some theories, conventional libraries can only diversify their services and activities in response to new technologies (Saibakumo 2021). Nevertheless, this transformation comes with lots of challenges for the libraries. The major challenge facing libraries is the financial challenge. Many studies in the review found that libraries have very limited funds for the adoption of new and emerging technologies (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Ali, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023). The cost of infrastructure (Roy, et al. 2022) and maintenance (Tella, et al. 2022) are also major factors in the libraries' budget constraints. Besides infrastructure, training is also very important for information professionals to become familiar with and deliver services using emerging technologies. However, training costs are a major barrier to the libraries' transformation (Ajani, et al. 2022). Inadequate experts (Hurrell and Baker 2020; Huber, et al. 2020; Ajani, et al. 2022; Roy, et al. 2022), lack of requisite skills (Bossart, et al. 2019; Saibakumo 2021; Saleh, et al. 2021, Ajani, et al. 2022), and insufficient training (Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022, Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023; Emiri 2023) are the main challenges in the human resource development of the libraries. Many studies have shown that libraries are facing basic infrastructure issues such as limited power supply (Saibakumo 2021; Ajani, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), poor and inadequate infrastructure (Ajani, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022; Emiri 2023), space limitations (Bossart, et al. 2019; Huber, et al. 2020), and an unstable internet network (Harisanty, et al. 2022; Tella, et al. 2022). Emerging technologies need reliable and efficient infrastructure to deliver services, but lacking basic and advanced facilities may lead to various security and ethical issues. Some studies cover such issues as privacy (Cox, et al. 2019; Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Harisanty, et al. 2022), trust (Asim, et al. 2022), ethical concerns (Huber, et al. 2020; Asim, et al. 2022), fraud (Tella, et al. 2022), data quality, and biases (Cox, et al. 2019). The attitude of staff plays a major role in catering to these challenges. However, the lack of awareness and knowledge of staff (Hervieux 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Owolabi, et al. 2022) and an attitude of resistance to change (Saleh, et al. 2021; Asim, et al. 2022; Clark and Lischer-Katz 2023) may obstruct them in delivering quality services. Some studies have also shown that a lack of unified standards (Harisanty, et al. 2022), problems in licensing (Hervieux 2021), and lack of verified educational content (Cook, et al. 2019) restrict the usage of emerging technologies such as AR, AI by the libraries.

Ajani, et al. (2022) suggested that academic librarians in Nigeria should become more aware of the benefits and challenges of integrating AI into library operations and services. Ali, et al. (2022) examined how AI can benefit college libraries, potentially improving resources and services. Andrews and Akwar's (2021) study guides librarians and managers considering the use of AI and related technologies, identifying factors that affect intention and suggesting interventions to improve performance. Asim, et al. (2022) provided valuable insights about AI for university librarians, system librarians, administrators, and policy institutions. Bossart, et al. (2019) suggested that 3D printing can allow students and researchers to visualize and innovate in diverse disciplines. Clark and Lischer-Katz (2023) emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to library resources and services for all users, regardless of technological advancements. Cook, et al. (2019) recommended that academic libraries implement and sustain 3D/VR programmes to enhance research and teaching across disciplines. Cox, et al. (2019) 'proposed the paradigm of the intelligent library to capture the potential impact of AI on libraries'. Dube and Jacobs (2023) described how Gauteng's higher education institutions could remotely maintain and improve their library services during pandemics. Emiri (2023) planned to evaluate AI usage among university librarians in southern Nigeria to enhance library services and operations. Harisanty, et al. (2022) aimed to gauge the awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence among library leaders, practitioners, and scientists. Hervieux (2021) provided valuable insights into academic librarians’ attitudes, performance, and readiness for adopting AI technologies in libraries. Huber, et al. (2020) suggested enhancing library services, supporting curriculum integration, and showcasing library leadership. Hurrell and Baker (2020) explored VR’s potential uses and benefits for strengthening undergraduate education. Kannegiser (2021) proposed that augmented reality could create a smart and immersive library environment that could adapt to changing needs and expectations. Khan, et al. (2021) recommended that library personnel benefit from a resource centre with information on integrating IoT. Meanwhile, Khan, et al. (2022) explored how blockchain technology can improve access to digital library resources. Liu (2023) described how AI recommendation algorithms in university libraries could improve services, user experience and aid student/faculty development. Lund, et al. (2020) suggested that the diffusion and innovation framework can benefit institutional policy development. Owolabi, et al. (2022) stressed the need for university library managers to take the necessary steps to adopt robotics technology effectively. Pang and Dou (2023) aimed to upgrade library services with AI tools, enhancing efficiency, allocation, and user satisfaction. Reed and Miller (2020) suggested enhancing library orientation experiences by incorporating gamification elements. Rodriguez and Mune (2022) said that libraries could develop and deploy AI tools, such as 'chatbots', to provide information to users with minimal technical knowledge. Roy, et al. (2022) suggested that academic libraries planning to adopt and implement AR/VR can create immersive environments. Saleh, et al. (2021) argued that using AR in libraries is essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Tella, et al. (2022) suggested increasing librarians' and archivists' awareness and positive perception levels to promote the adoption of blockchain and improve effective service delivery. Wang (2022) proposed that machine learning can improve library chat services by providing real-time predictions, feedback, and recommendations. Yoon, et al. (2022) recommended that librarians receive training and education on AI and related technologies to transform their functions and services.

The rapid integration of emerging technologies into library operations and services has ushered in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly digital world, adopting technologies like AI, the IoTs, VR, AR, and blockchain has become advantageous for libraries, striving to remain relevant and sustainable. These technologies have demonstrated their potential to revolutionize the very essence of libraries, from streamlining resource management and enhancing user services to offering cutting-edge security measures and personalized recommendations. They serve as catalysts for innovation, creating interactive and immersive environments that transcend the traditional boundaries of library spaces. Yet, as libraries embrace this transformation, they face formidable challenges, including budget limitations, the need for staff training and skill development, infrastructure enhancements, and the evolving expectations of users.

Our systematic review underscores the importance of investing in proper training and infrastructure for library staff. These foundational elements not only motivate librarians to embrace these technologies but also translate into elevated service quality and enriched library functions. Increased awareness among library professionals about new technologies paves the way for more responsive, adaptive, and user-centric library experiences. It's crucial to note that this review adheres to stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, ensuring the reliability and validity of the findings. As libraries continue to evolve and adapt in the digital age, the strategic integration of emerging technologies will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of libraries, making them more vibrant, dynamic, and indispensable in the lives of individuals and organizations alike. The journey towards this future is challenging, but it is a journey worth undertaking, as it holds the promise of a more innovative, inclusive, and knowledge-driven society.

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Yoon J., J. E. Andrews, and H. L. Ward. 2021. Perceptions on adopting artificial intelligence and related technologies in libraries: Public and academic librarians in North America. Library Hi Tech. 40 (6): 1893–1915. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/lht-07-2021-0229