Digital Transformation of Public Libraries in the Information Age

  • Authors

    • Friedrich L. Bauer Professor of Computer Science, Technical University of Munich, Germany. Author
    • Klaus Samelson Professor of Computer Science, Technical University of Munich, Germany. Author

    DOI:

    https://doi.org/10.67228/3071561X/IJIRHT-2025PI3A7W

    Published 02-05-2025

  • Digital Transformation, Public Libraries, Digital Libraries, Information Management, Knowledge Services, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Information Access, Library Automation, Smart Libraries

    Issue

    Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025)

    Section

    Articles

    How to Cite

    [1]
    F. L. Bauer and K. Samelson, “Digital Transformation of Public Libraries in the Information Age”, IJIRHT, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 01–17, Feb. 2025, doi: 10.67228/3071561X/IJIRHT-2025PI3A7W.

  • Abstract

    Digital technologies have transformed public libraries by changing how information is created, stored, accessed, and shared. Traditional libraries are evolving into digitally enabled knowledge centers through the adoption of information and communication technologies (ICT), cloud computing, artificial intelligence, digital repositories, mobile services, and online platforms. This transformation helps libraries meet the growing demand for anytime, anywhere access to information. Digital services such as e-books, electronic databases, virtual reference systems, and digital archives improve accessibility and user engagement. However, libraries also face challenges including infrastructure costs, staff training, cybersecurity, digital literacy, privacy protection, and intellectual property management. This study proposes a Digital Public Library Transformation Framework that integrates digital infrastructure, cloud-based systems, AI services, digital content delivery, and user-centered knowledge services. The framework aims to improve service quality, accessibility, operational efficiency, and community participation. The results indicate that digitally transformed libraries outperform traditional libraries by enhancing information access, reducing service delivery time, increasing resource usage, and promoting digital literacy and lifelong learning. The study concludes that digital transformation is essential for ensuring the sustainability and relevance of public libraries in the Information Age.

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