Moving into the metaverse: libraries in virtual worlds

Abstract

Purpose As traditional physical spaces grapple with evolving reading habits and information consumption patterns, the notion of libraries within the metaverse poses intriguing questions about accessibility, knowledge dissemination and the evolving role of librarians. The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of metaverse in virtual libraries. Design/methodology/approach This paper analyzes various literature relating to libraries and the metaverse in the virtual worlds through a review of the literature. Findings In the ever-evolving landscape of information and technology, the emergence of libraries in virtual worlds presents a transformative paradigm that brings forth both tremendous advantages and intricate challenges. These advantages are underscored by enhanced accessibility for a global audience, interactive engagements that cater to diverse learning styles and the unprecedented scalability that digital environments provide. Virtual libraries hold the potential to reshape the way people access, share and engage with knowledge, while also fostering a sense of community that transcends geographical boundaries. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the original idea that highlights the importance of metaverse in virtual libraries.

Metalibrarians as Residents Beyond the Second Life: An Overview of Contradictory Concept on “The Metaverse”

“…This emerging concept has the potential to transform the way we think about libraries and the services they offer, as well as the way we interact with information in a virtual context. Oladokun, Yahaya, and Enakrire (2023) presented a deeper exploration of this topic in a study. Bakar et al (2022, p. 271-272) have given a realistic approach to the relationship between Metaverse and libraries.…”

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

“…Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are reshaping library engagement, offering immersive experiences such as virtual tours, reference services, and enriched learning environments (Greene and Groenendyk, 2020;Hwang and Chien, 2022;LeMire et al, 2018;Lischer-Katz and Cook, 2022;Suen et al, 2020). The advent of virtual libraries within VR environments fosters community interaction and extends services, addressing physical limitations and geographic constraints (Dahya et al, 2021;Mon, 2012;Oladokun et al, 2023).…”

“…The emergence of the metaverse, a digitally enhanced universe intersecting physical reality, has sparked discussions on its potential impact across various domains (Avila, 2017; Mystakidis, 2022; Ng, 2022; Ritterbusch and Teichmann, 2023). Libraries, integral in knowledge dissemination, consider integrating into this digital realm, raising questions about accessibility, knowledge sharing, and the evolving role of librarians amidst changing reading habits (Oladokun et al. , 2023).…”

“…Integrating metaverse technologies into library services offers unprecedented opportunities for immersive learning experiences, interactive resource access, and novel methods of information dissemination. The metamorphosis of libraries within this digital sphere implies a shift towards enhanced engagement, dynamic learning environments, and innovative modes of connecting with patrons (Ajani et al, 2023;Oladokun et al, 2023).…”

“…The metamorphosis of libraries within this digital sphere implies a shift towards enhanced engagement, dynamic learning environments, and innovative modes of connecting with patrons (Ajani et al. , 2023; Oladokun et al. , 2023).…”