Adoption and uses of cloud computing in academic libraries: A systematic literature

Abstract

This study aims to synthesise the findings of research on cloud computing adoption and use in libraries. This systematic literature review is based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method and comprises publications in the English language, published in the four world-renowned databases. This study identified various cloud computing practices, including library automation systems on clouds, email services, applications of social media, cloud storage (Dropbox), consortium services, digital library and file sharing. The libraries adopted cloud computing due to cost-effectiveness, storage facility, ease-to-use, flexibility and scalability, time-saving, lack of in-house skill set and ubiquitous nature of the technologies. Several factors, for example, security issues, privacy of data, slow Internet connectivity and high subscription rate affect the adoption of cloud computing. The critical adoption, usage factors and various challenges identified would provide valuable insight to library professionals to decide how to employ cloud-based practices to offer innovative services in academic libraries.