Internet of Things in contemporary academic libraries: application and challenges

Abstract

Purpose Academic libraries are constantly adopting emerging technologies to deliver innovative services. A recent trend in technological innovation is the Internet of Things (IoT). Consequently, this study theoretically x-rayed the various ways in which IoT could be applied to academic libraries and the expected challenges associated with the adoption of the technology. Design/methodology/approach This study used the review method to examine the application of IoT in contemporary academic libraries. Findings This study explained the concept of IoT and went further to x-ray the application of IoTs in academic libraries as it affects critical aspects of the library operations, thereby justifying how IoT influences innovative service delivery. The peculiar challenges faced by academic libraries in developing countries were also discussed. Originality/value This study’s value is reflected in the need to examine IoT adoption in academic libraries from the perspective of both developing and developed countries, where for certain reasons, the diffusion of new technology is relatively slow.

Library practitioners’ perceptions on the applications of IoT in university libraries of Bangladesh

“…However, empirical evidence from developing countries like Nigeria and Pakistan show that IoT applications in university libraries are mostly restricted to smart circulation systems, RFID-based security control, and theft management (Eiriemiokhale and Olutola, 2023;Asim et al, 2022). The implementation of innovative IoT technologies in libraries can improve management effectiveness, make libraries smarter, protect library resources, improve readers' service, save users' time, reduce the cost of library maintenance and enhance staff competency (Xu, 2022;Igbinovia and Okuonghae, 2021a).…”

“…Despite the opportunities of IoT, some studies identified a number of challenges of implementing IoT technology in libraries (Asim and Arif, 2023;Asim et al, 2022;Harati et al, 2021;Igbinovia and Okuonghae, 2021a;Bansal et al, 2018;Kaba and Ramaiah, 2019;Kumar, 2016;Hoy, 2015). As there is no standard for this technology, it can exchange data using multiple companies' own parameter and thus the risk of unauthorized access and system hacking would be a common issue (Hoy, 2015).…”

“…, 2022). The implementation of innovative IoT technologies in libraries can improve management effectiveness, make libraries smarter, protect library resources, improve readers’ service, save users’ time, reduce the cost of library maintenance and enhance staff competency (Xu, 2022; Igbinovia and Okuonghae, 2021a).…”

“…, 2022; Harati et al. , 2021; Igbinovia and Okuonghae, 2021a; Bansal et al. , 2018; Kaba and Ramaiah, 2019; Kumar, 2016; Hoy, 2015).…”

“…, 2023; Khan et al. , 2022; Igbinovia and Okuonghae, 2021a, b; Gul and Bano, 2019; Sheeja and Susan, 2019; Liang and Chen, 2020; Nag and Nikam, 2016). Although the library sector is still relatively new to IoT, there is evidence that some libraries have adopted some of the perspectives of IoT (Mohammadi and Yegane, 2018; Pujar and Satyanarayana, 2015).…”