Metaverse academic library: would it be patronized?

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to examine if students would patronize metaverse academic library (MAL) if it becomes available in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach This study used a descriptive survey research design. The population was made up of 1,037 undergraduate in Adeleke University. Descriptive statistic was used to analyse data. Findings Findings indicated most students have never used virtual reality (VR) equipment, they are eager to use MAL for virtual academic research, library user education, accessing circulation services, reading serials and contacting reference librarians. The study concluded that MAL would be patronised by students if it is made available and therefore recommends that greater effort be made to make VR gear accessible and cheap for developing nations such as Nigeria. Originality/value The study is novel as it contributes to scarce research on MAL.

Embedding Emotions in the Metaverse: The Emotive Keywords for Augmented Reality Mobile Library Application

“…It emerges from a combination of numerous technologies that blend together with the ability to expand the physical world through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) [20] offering a fully dynamic and immersive virtual environment [21]. The application of the metaverse extends across diverse sectors, including education for innovative libraries [22], [23], enhanced campus and classroom experiences [24]- [26], retail to elevate shopping experiences [27], [28], games for revolutionary entertainment [29], [30], and the medical field to enhance healthcare [31], [32]. It is expected to be applied in an even broader range of sectors in the future.…”

“…In tandem, [45] have delved into the metaverse's potential to revolutionize library data storage and retrieval, as well as provide better reading environment [13], shedding light on its transformative potential. Similarly, [23], [46], [47] strongly emphasized the imperative need of libraries to embrace the metaverse in order to meet the demands of a digitally connected society. This is further supported by [21], [48], who argued that libraries should not fall behind, but rather be proactive and continue to evolve in order to stay aligned with the changing technological landscape and growing user expectations.…”