Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the critical factors that drive the adoption of digital library system (DLS) in institutes located in remote India. An integrated model of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model-2 (UTAUT2) and information systems success model (ISSM) is used to evaluate the critical factors.
Design/methodology/approach
The survey method of research was used, and the data collected was analysed by using PLS-SEM, which proved helpful to evaluate and validate the model.
Findings
Departing from past research, where most of the factors of the UTAUT2 and ISSM were found to influence the adoption of DLS, in this context, it is noted that performance expectancy, facilitating conditions and habit were the only constructs that influenced the intention to use DLS.
Originality/value
The study addresses the requirement for further research in DLS domain in emerging markets. It is one of the few studies addressing DLS adoption in remote India. The findings are unique to this context, which differ from developed nations, thus, answering the call to advance UTAUT model.