BEYOND THE STACKS: BORROWING OF IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGIES AND SMART ECO SYSTEMS TO REIMAGINE LIBRARIES.
Date of this Version
Summer 4-15-2026
Document Type
Article
Abstract
This theoretical Chapter explores the paradigm shift of knowledge access, user experience, and institutional viability through the integration of immersive technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), within the new paradigm of funky libraries, and how these technologies are changing knowledge access, user experiences, and the institutional sustainability of various library environments. Methodology: The research approach is non-empirical and exploratory-conceptual, based on a synthesis of systematic literature, thematic clustering of the existing literature, and theoretical critique of recent peer-reviewed findings. The chapter is based on more than twenty five empirical and theoretical studies to conceptualise insights into a unified conceptual framework the ISLE Model (Immersive Smart Library Ecosystem) which illustrates the dynamic interplay of technological adoption, user-centred design, and organisational change. The synthesis indicates that immersive technologies can improve considerably the experiential learning, inclusive access, and community engagement when integrated into intelligent library design. Learning systems Smart library systems which utilise AI-powered personalisation, resource management through IoT, and narrative environments show quantifiably better patron satisfaction and operational efficiency. Implications: The Chapter provides practical advice to the library administrators, policy makers, technology vendors, educational institutions, and funding bodies that wish to have evidence-based advice on how to execute the process of implementing technology in phases. Time generalizability is limited by the lack of primary data (empirical) and the fact that technological changes happen promptly. ISLE Model is a new theoretical work that unites the disjointed theory in one conceptual architecture, the first time in one integrative framework the literature of library science, human-computer interaction and organisational management.
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