Smart library: Reflections on concepts, aspects and technologies

Recent developments in the information ecosystem and the changes of the knowledge organisations have resulted in a growing tendency towards a new generation of libraries. This study intends to reflect the characteristics, necessities and challenges of smart libraries using the documentary research method. In total, 78 research articles from the top 17 databases were reviewed. A total of 128 concepts were identified in different aspects, such as technology ( n = 53), services ( n = 36), people ( n = 19), management ( n = 7), space and place ( n = 9), governance ( n = 2), and moral and legal matters ( n = 2). The characteristics, necessities, reasons, challenges and obstacles of smart libraries are multidimensional, complex and varied. Smart libraries employ various technologies to facilitate the interaction between people and resources and between people and libraries, while also enabling intelligent administration. This work assists researchers, designers and librarians in how to develop and improve smart libraries.