Beyond reality: metaverse technologies revolutionizing libraries and elevating user engagement

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to provide insight into the usage of metaverse technologies in libraries, examining their impact on library service user engagement and assisting in unique promotion and marketing techniques for the metaverse setting. Design/methodology/approach This study used a literature review approach to synthesize current scholarly material on metaverse technologies and their practical applicability in the library context. It gathered academic literature from Emerald, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases to construct a strong foundation for the study from journal articles, which were retrieved using the researcher’s “search string.” Findings Metaverse technologies are reshaping the idea of smart libraries, offering innovative approaches to interact with information resources and delivering users progressively immersive and dynamic learning experiences. This in-depth investigation adds to a better understanding of the emerging link between metaverse technology and library professionals. It bridges the gap between libraries and users, transcending geographical boundaries and enabling libraries to serve a global audience. It anticipates metaverse-infused academic libraries welcoming new methods of engaging with their users with interactive capabilities to create a unique environment to explore library resources in an interactive marketing approach. Originality/value The metaverse is not only the future but also the future of libraries. This research fills the gap by advancing the literature on cutting-edge library technologies and empowers users to become reflective and well-informed information producers. It also helps library stakeholders engage with their audience in new and impactful ways and explore innovative marketing strategies tailored to the metaverse environment.

Preparing for the future: metaverse readiness among library professionals in Pakistan

“…It encapsulates a multifaceted realm where individuals immerse themselves in diverse virtual environments, interact with others, and engage with digital content in ways previously unimagined (Dwivedi et al, 2022). Within this expansive digital universe, the potential applications span numerous sectors, and libraries stand to undergo significant transformations within this evolving landscape (Diseiye et al, 2024;Margam, 2024).…”

“…Within this expansive digital universe, the potential applications span numerous sectors, and libraries stand to undergo significant transformations within this evolving landscape (Diseiye et al. , 2024; Margam, 2024).…”