Libraries in the metaverse: the need for metaliteracy for digital librarians and digital age library users

Abstract

Purpose As the metaverse gains popularity, libraries have the potential to play a vital role in this virtual world. However, digital librarians and digital age library users need to develop metaliteracy skills to effectively navigate and evaluate digital information in the metaverse. The main purpose of this paper is to explore the link between libraries and the metaverse, define metaliteracy and highlight its importance for librarians and library users. The challenges of developing metaliteracy skills in the metaverse are discussed, as well as the need for ongoing training and support. This paper also explores the role of libraries and librarians in the metaverse and provides recommendations for enhancing metaliteracy skills. Design/methodology/approach Through a review of the literature, this paper analyzes various library websites and consulting literature relating to the link between libraries and the metaverse, metaliteracy and its importance for librarians and library users and the challenges of developing metaliteracy skills in the metaverse. Findings As the metaverse continues to evolve, libraries and librarians must adapt and develop the necessary skills to continue providing valuable resources and services to their communities in virtual environments. Originality/value To the best of authors’ knowledge, this paper is the original idea that highlights the importance of metaliteracy for librarians and library users. The challenges of developing metaliteracy skills in the metaverse.

Moving into the metaverse: libraries in virtual worlds

“…Familiarity with VR and 3D technologies is crucial for librarians in environments that incorporate such features. Tella et al (2023) emphasized that librarians should be comfortable navigating VR platforms, understanding spatial design and assisting users with VR experiences. Generally, librarians in virtual environments require a unique skill set that encompasses digital literacy, community building, user-centered design, online information literacy instruction and familiarity with emerging technologies.…”

Reincarnation of libraries via metaverse: A pathway for a sustainable knowledge system in the digital age

“…Universal accessibility takes precedence. The democratization of metaverse library access bridges the digital divide, ensuring that knowledge is accessible to all, echoing the egalitarian ideals of traditional libraries (Tella et al, 2023). Amid this transition, privacy and security hold paramount importance.…”

Metaliteracy advocacy: The need for libraries to engage users in the Metaverse

“…However, as is the case with any emerging technology, the adoption of the Metaverse within libraries raises ethical considerations. In this context, Tella et al (2023) illuminate how the Metaverse elevates the virtual library, offering a 3D realm for users to access resources and participate in events. Within this virtual space, virtual exhibits and bookshelves interlink with library resources.…”

“…Within this context, Tella et al (2023) underscore that while the metaverse offers a platform for pioneering library services, disparities in access to requisite technology and equipment can curtail some users’ full engagement in the virtual sphere. In concurrence, Behling and Critten (2021) draw attention to the potential inundation of information within the metaverse, which may overwhelm digital librarians and users alike.…”

“…Delving deeper, Tella et al (2023) assert that users encounter digital disparities. The authors posit that technology and digital resource access is not uniform across all users, potentially exacerbating the digital divide by creating a chasm between those who can engage with the metaverse and those who cannot.…”