The Digital Divide in the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Opportunity and challenge for Libraries

Abstract

In the actual evolving technology landscape, the concept of Industry 4.0 has gained significant attention in various sectors. Industry 4.0, also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, refers to the integration of advanced digital technologies, which have had a profound impact on diverse industries, and libraries are no exception. Those days when libraries were solely repositories of physical books and magazines are now far away. Actually, libraries have become dynamic information centers that harness the power of technology to provide a wide range of services to their users. The introduction of digital resources and online databases has revolutionized the way libraries provide access to information. With the availability of e-books, e-magazines, and online databases, users can access a wide range of resources from the comfort of their own homes. This not only broadens access to information, but also removes physical space constraints and limited opening hours. In addition, digital resources can be easily updated and shared, which ensures that users have access to the most up-to-date information, but has also led to the digital divide becoming larger. This essay aims to introduce Industry 4.0 in libraries, exploring its definition, key technologies and principles. In addition, he will discuss the application of Industry 4.0 in libraries, highlighting the integration of automation, internet of things and artificial intelligence in library processes and services. However, despite the benefits that Industrial Revolution 4.0 brings, libraries also face several challenges in bridging the digital divide. One of the main challenges is to guarantee equal access to digital technologies and infrastructures.