Segments of the digital transformation of academic and research libraries: user experience at the centre

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to broaden the theoretical understanding of the impact that digital transformation processes have on academic libraries and to investigate the characteristics of their digital maturity so that guidelines can be identified for improving the user experience and for accelerating and connecting parts of library operations. Approach/methodology/design: The paper provides an overview of the theoretical background and a review of research dealing with the concept of digital transformation in the context of higher‑education institutions, with particular emphasis on academic libraries. Results: Academic libraries play a key role in ensuring digital access to resources through modern library information systems and also in supporting scholars, teachers and students in teaching and research. Contemporary cloud‑based platforms with built‑in discovery services enable unified resources management, analytics, system integration and the application of artificial intelligence to enhance services to users. Practical implications: The results of the study can be used in the preparation of strategic and operational work plans for libraries. Originality/value: By researching the characteristics through which the digital maturity of academic and research libraries can be measured, the paper contributes to a general understanding of the notion of digital transformation and to its operationalisation in library workflow processes.