Fourth industrial revolution (4IR): librarians' perceptions encompass the art of thinking skill

Abstract

PurposeThe world is moving toward a new industrial revolution period where digital technology has achieved unprecedented developments. The industrial revolution (IR) is a subcategory of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). This paper aims to discuss the 4IR technologies from the perspective of librarians. It investigates the perceptions of librarians about the 4IR.Design/methodology/approachThe study was conducted in the Malaysian academic libraries. A set of eight open-ended questions were designed to investigate the challenges, barriers and business case to encompass the art of thinking skills in information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT). The participants were a group of librarians' working in the 4IR with a glimpse of the transformation toward smart libraries. Four librarians' answered the blurred line and fill the gap between life as a librarian and technology as the cutting edge of industry development.FindingsThe findings of this study on the 4IR as a global business–library industry exposed that the technological advancements and development process of information system (IS) has incorporated the most advanced and innovative technologies which have influenced librarians' perceptions, thinking skill and mindset. This study proposes IS enablers and librarians to take measures to cope with the 4IR.Originality/valueThis study is unique in the sense that it is the foremost research on 4IR from the perspective of Malaysian librarians'.

Continuing professional development and the changing landscape of academic libraries

“…Importantly, all respondents unequivocally expressed their agreement regarding the importance of CPD initiatives. Mohideen et al (2022), further elaborate on the significance of developing competence and skills for librarians within the context of continuously technological advancements. In order to remain competitive and marketable in the job market, librarians need to continually enhance their knowledge and skills, encompassing both soft and hard skills.…”

“…Such findings are likely to be applicable beyond the confines of the DUT library environment, indicating that CPD is not only valued but also beneficial across various library settings. Emphasising the significance of CPD in libraries underscores its universal relevance, highlighting its potential to improve skills, knowledge and service quality in libraries worldwide (Mohideen et al. , 2022).…”

“…Importantly, all respondents unequivocally expressed their agreement regarding the importance of CPD initiatives. Mohideen et al . (2022), further elaborate on the significance of developing competence and skills for librarians within the context of continuously technological advancements.…”

“…CPD offers many benefits for employers.CPD enhances employee performance. CPD empowers employees to gain new knowledge, skills and abilities that directly enhance their performance in their respective roles (Mohideen et al. , 2022).…”

The current research landscape in digital marketing scientific literature in libraries: exploration through performance and science mapping

“…DM appears to be an effective technique for connecting to and promoting information products and services, particularly current awareness services and information service dissemination to the user community. Libraries in the internet age must spread out and go where the patrons are using new techniques (Mohideen et al , 2022). Full-time information specialists are required to manage library marketing and to keep patrons updated about library events.…”