Digital transformation technology in academic libraries

Abstract

This study aims to shed light on the developments in digital transformation technology within academic libraries. Digital transformation has fundamentally altered the way libraries operate, enabling them to restructure and reorganize their management processes. The digital revolution has had multiple impacts on libraries, most notably revolutionizing traditional internal library routines by integrating advanced technologies. This integration enhances library service delivery, facilitates access to information resources, and improves operational efficiency. Providing digital content requires meticulous preparation, comprehensive analysis, and well-informed decisions, as well as a technically competent team. Therefore, this study presents the concepts of digital transformation, its fundamental importance, its typical processes, and explores the key factors influencing digital adoption, including access to digital resources, the use of automation software, internet availability, and challenges such as infrastructure limitations, budget constraints, and digital knowledge gaps. Accordingly, the study population was represented in some of the academic libraries at Omar Al-Mukhtar University, which number 12 libraries, where a random sample of 97 specialists was selected from the total number of 107. The results showed that the digital transformation has not been fully adopted, and libraries of all types must build an IT infrastructure and improve its accessibility in order to provide effective assistance to library users. The study recommends developing regulatory policies that support the adoption and implementation of digital technologies in libraries, by providing the necessary capabilities to work in the digital environment, which is essential to maintaining their importance in the digital age, including expanding digital collections, improving service delivery, adopting new technologies, instilling a digital culture, and ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. There should be continuous learning and development for library specialists.