Preparing for the future: metaverse readiness among library professionals in Pakistan
| Date | 22 May 2024 |
| Pages | 297-316 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-12-2023-0131 |
| Published date | 22 May 2024 |
| Author | A. Subaveerapandiyan,Hina Sardar |
Preparing for the future: metaverse
readiness among library
professionals in Pakistan
A. Subaveerapandiyan
Department of Library and Information Science, Bennett University,
Greater Noida, India and
Department of Library and Information Science, DMI-St Eugene University,
Lusaka, Zambia, and
Hina Sardar
Department of Library, Shahida Islam Medical College, Lodhran, Pakistan
Abstract
Purpose –This study aims to evaluate the readiness of library professionals in Pakistan for metaverse
technology adoption. It assesses their familiarity with the metaverse, identifies potential applications within
libraries, pinpoints skill gaps, and unravels challenges hindering integration.
Design/methodology/approach –Employing a quantitative survey design, a survey was conducted from
November 15, 2023, to December 15, 2023, targeting library professionals in Pakistan. The survey gathered
data on familiarity with the metaverse, perceived applications in libraries, self-assessed proficiency in
metaverse-related skills, and perceived challenges to metaverse adoption.
Findings –Library professionals in Pakistan exhibit moderate familiarity with the metaverse, demonstrating
higher proficiency in certain aspects such as virtual reality and digital assets but a lesser understanding of
legal/regulatory challenges and societal impacts. Perceived highly impactful applications in libraries include
virtual meetups, immersive learning programs, collaborative research spaces, and virtual librarian-led
tutorials. Challenges hindering metaverse adoption include budget constraints, limited technical expertise,
concerns about privacy/security, and resistance to change.
Research limitations/implications –The study’s limitations include the sample size and the specific data
collection timeframe, which might limit generalizability. The findings offer implications for training programs,
resource allocation, and policy formulation to facilitate metaverse integration in Pakistani libraries.
Originality/value –This study contributes original insights into the metaverse readiness of library
professionals in Pakistan, offering a comprehensive analysis of their familiarity, perceived applications, skill
gaps, and challenges, enabling tailored strategies for metaverse integration in library services.
Keywords Metaverse, Library professionals, Technological readiness, Immersive technologies,
Pakistan libraries, Digital transformation
Paper type Research paper
Introduction
The rapid evolution of technology continues to shape new digital frontiers, and the
emergence of the metaverse is a compelling example. This fusion of virtual and augmented
realities has ignited curiosity worldwide, presenting a realm of immersive experiences and
novel possibilities. Within this transformative landscape, library professionals in Pakistan
are on the threshold of a technological revolution that could redefine their roles and services.
The metaverse, a term gaining widespread attention, represents a convergence of digital
spaces, virtual reality, and interconnected experiences. It encapsulates a multifaceted realm
where individuals immerse themselves in diverse virtual environments, interact with others,
Metaverse
among library
professionals
297
Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public,
commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
Declaration of competing interest: None.
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at:
https://www.emerald.com/insight/0143-5124.htm
Received 28 December 2023
Revised 13 March 2024
Accepted 7 April 2024
Library Management
Vol. 45 No. 5, 2024
pp. 297-316
© Emerald Publishing Limited
0143-5124
DOI 10.1108/LM-12-2023-0131
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).
Traditionally regarded as bastions of knowledge and community hubs, the metaverse
concept introduces compelling prospects and challenges for libraries. 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).
Pakistan’s library landscape is rich with traditional knowledge repositories, and the
integration of cutting-edge technologies like the metaverse is still at a nascent stage.
However, recent developments indicate a growing interest and experimentation within
certain library setups (Jabeen et al., 2024;Khan et al., 2023;Shah et al., 2023).
Emerging initiatives in Pakistan libraries demonstrate initial forays into leveraging
metaverse technology to enhance user experiences and redefine library services. Although
not widespread, some libraries have begun exploring virtual meetups, immersive learning
programs, and collaborative research spaces facilitated by metaverse platforms. These
pioneering efforts, albeit limited, signify a nascent yet promising shift towards embracing
immersive technologies within Pakistan’s library ecosystem.
Furthermore, while specific case studies or data regarding the widespread adoption of
metaverse technology in Pakistan libraries might be scarce, anecdotal evidence and
preliminary experiments showcase the potential transformative impact of such technologies.
For instance, anecdotal reports from certain academic institutions highlight successful
implementations of virtual reality-enhanced learning environments and digital repositories
within their library infrastructure (Hussain and Ahmad, 2021;Rafiq et al., 2021).
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that challenges such as limited resources,
technological infrastructure constraints, and varying levels of digital literacy among library
professionals may impede the widespread adoption and integration of metaverse
technologies across Pakistan’s diverse library landscape. Despite these obstacles, the
burgeoning interest and sporadic implementations underscore the relevance and timeliness
of assessing the readiness of library professionals for metaverse technology adoption (Ashiq
et al., 2021;Rafi et al., 2019;Rehman et al., 2024).
By integrating insights into the current application of metaverse technology in Pakistan
libraries, this study aims to provide a holistic understanding of the opportunities and
challenges shaping the technological landscape of the country’s library sector. Through this
nuanced analysis, the study endeavors to offer actionable recommendations for fostering a
more inclusive, technologically adept library ecosystem that aligns with global digital trends
while catering to the unique needs and contexts of Pakistan’s diverse library community.
Need of the study
The study on “Metaverse Readiness among Library Professionals in Pakistan”is vital for
assessing the preparedness of library professionals to embrace emerging technologies. By
evaluating their familiarity with the metaverse, identifying potential applications within
libraries, and pinpointing skill gaps, the study offers insights crucial for enhancing library
services. Understanding the challenges hindering metaverse adoption, such as budget
constraints and technical expertise limitations, is essential for overcoming barriers and
leveraging the full potential of these technologies. Moreover, the study’s findings contribute
to the broader discourse on digital transformation in libraries, highlighting the global
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