Factors influencing the adoption of big data in libraries: a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed articles from 2013 to 2023

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study are to identify the factors influencing the adoption of big data in libraries, determine the challenges causing the hindrance of big data implementation and reveal the best practices for the efficient adoption of big data in libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was applied to address the objectives of the study. Twenty-two studies published in peer-reviewed journals were selected to conduct the study.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that decision-making, service enhancement, professional development and preservation factors influenced the adoption of big data technologies in libraries. The study also displayed that challenges of infrastructure, technical skills, data management and legal considerations caused barriers to the adoption of big data in libraries. Results also revealed that training and professional development, guidelines and policies establishment, leadership and strategic planning and resource allocation proved fruitful in the efficient adoption of big data applications in libraries.

Originality/value

The study offers theoretical implications for future investigators through the provision of innovative literature on the factors, challenges and best practices associated with big data in the context of librarianship. The study has also provided practical implications for management bodies by offering guidelines for the successful adoption of big data in libraries.

Citation

Shahzad, K. and Khan, S.A. (2024), "Factors influencing the adoption of big data in libraries: a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed articles from 2013 to 2023", The Electronic Library, Vol. 42 No. 5, pp. 722-740. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-02-2024-0057