| Abstrakt: |
Introduction: The future of libraries is likely to witness a significant departure from their current form. This evolution can be aptly captured by the term "smart library." Smart libraries represent a strategic option for libraries to maintain their relevance and preserve their core functionalities within the evolving landscape of a smart society. The present research delves into the design and implementation of smart libraries by systematically examining and analyzing existing literature on the subject. Methodology: his qualitative research employed a meta-synthesis approach, specifically following the seven-step model developed by Sandelowski and Barroso (Year). A comprehensive search for relevant scientific articles and publications on smart libraries was conducted across reputable scientific databases. No restrictions were imposed on publication date or language. This initial search yielded a total of 1800 articles. Following the removal of duplicates and irrelevant materials, a corpus of 194 articles was subjected to content analysis to identify the key dimensions and components of smart libraries. The MAXQDA software was utilized to facilitate this analysis. Findings: Content analysis of 194 articles yielded a total of 4,336 codes. These codes were subsequently categorized into eight dimensions and seventy-six components. The identified dimensions encompass: technology, services, human resources, resources, space, governance and management, legal aspects, ethical considerations, social factors, cultural influences, political landscape, and innovation and creativity. Smart libraries leverage emerging and advanced technologies to facilitate enhanced resource management and improved service delivery to users. These services encompass three primary categories: Knowledge-based services utilizing information extraction and user needs analysis, these services provide targeted knowledge resources; intelligent system-based services including precise and automated services such as smart air conditioning systems and smart fire safety systems; and high-level services encompassing recreational activities and cultural events. In smart libraries, users and librarians function as indispensable human elements, playing a critical role in achieving the ultimate goal of empowering users with knowledge and fostering intellectual growth. This objective necessitates catering to the diverse needs of a dynamic user base. On the one hand, users within smart libraries transcend the role of passive consumers of information, transitioning into active knowledge producers and content contributors. This collaborative approach fosters a vibrant information ecosystem. On the other hand, librarians remain central to successful smart library management. To effectively leverage the potential of smart technologies and optimize user services, librarians require ongoing training and development to cultivate a strong foundation in these technologies. This ensures the delivery of enhanced and user-centric information services. Smart libraries are characterized by the integration of human resources, material resources, and technology. This synergistic approach not only streamlines library operations but also fosters increased efficiency and cost reduction. However, it is the human element, serving as the primary source for expanding knowledge services, that remains of paramount importance in smart libraries. The utilization of individuals' knowledge as a resource for knowledge production can significantly enhance the quality and scope of content and knowledge services. This approach fosters a more collaborative and participatory environment, leading to a richer and more diverse knowledge base. The second aspect pertains to the concept of smart living, focusing on enhancing the overall quality of life and user experience within the library space. Through strategic space design, optimized layout configurations, and furniture tailored to user needs, the library can foster environments that encourage collaboration, focused study, and relaxation. This holistic approach ultimately leads to a more positive and enriching user experience. Furthermore, smart governance in libraries emphasizes fostering a dynamic interplay between users, intelligent management practices, and inter-institutional networking. By cultivating such interactions, libraries can play a pivotal role in strengthening social cohesion and facilitating greater public participation. In the context of smart libraries, collaboration with other institutions, such as universities and social organizations, is crucial. Fostering a networked ecosystem for knowledge creation and dissemination facilitates the continuous improvement of library services and maximizes their impact. Additionally, smart library management practices encompass initiatives that promote increased transparency in administration, user participation in decision-making processes, and the utilization of automated and optimized management methods. These practices effectively engage users as stakeholders in the governance of libraries. Ethical, cultural, social, and political issues inherent to the domain of smart libraries demand careful attention and thorough examination. Innovation and creativity are essential for libraries to address both internal and external challenges. By embracing these qualities, libraries can offer unique and user-centered services. Such innovations cultivate opportunities for social interaction within communities, facilitate the transformation of content offerings, and enable the provision of comprehensive services tailored to diverse needs. Conclusion: While technology undoubtedly serves as the foundation and infrastructure for smart libraries, a holistic approach necessitates consideration of a broader spectrum of factors. These factors encompass services offered, human resources, physical space optimization, resource allocation, effective governance and management structures, legal and ethical frameworks, cultural sensitivity, social impact, political considerations, fostering innovation, and encouraging creative solutions. It is paramount, however, to acknowledge the importance of context-specific design and implementation. The needs and existing facilities of each library, along with available budgetary constraints, should be carefully assessed to ensure a tailored approach that optimizes the benefits of a smart library for its specific user community. The successful implementation of smart libraries necessitates a multidimensional approach that integrates several critical elements. These libraries strive to create intelligent spaces that adapt to the dynamic and evolving needs of their users. To achieve this objective, it is imperative to meticulously consider user requirements, the physical facilities, the requisite budgetary resources, and the selection of appropriate equipment and technologies. By prioritizing these aspects, smart libraries can significantly enhance user experience and optimize service delivery. Ultimately, when these dimensions are effectively addressed, smart libraries transform into multifaceted institutions, revolutionizing the way information is accessed, shared, and utilized. Originality: This research employed a systematic meta-synthesis methodology to examine the multifaceted nature of smart libraries. This approach contributes significantly to bridging the existing knowledge gap in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
