Revisiting the TAM: adapting the model to advanced technologies and evolving user behaviours

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the applicability of the technology acceptance model (TAM) in libraries considering the advanced technologies and users’ behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a critical reflective approach to review and synthesize a body of recent academic literature on the use of TAM in libraries. The review included assessing TAM’s historical evolution, its limitations and how it could be improved.

Findings

The findings indicated that, although TAM can be viewed as an appropriate theoretical model to explain the users’ intention towards technology acceptance, it is limited in explaining both the users’ attitude towards advanced technology and their behaviour in advanced library settings.

Research limitations/implications

To enhance the practicality of TAM in libraries, several recommendations for strategic advancements have been proposed such as contextualizing TAM to libraries, exploring AI-driven adoption, integrating library-specific constructs, understanding cultural differences and using holistic research approaches.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of technology adoption in libraries and to the future possibilities of TAM.

Citation

Ishengoma, F. (2024), "Revisiting the TAM: adapting the model to advanced technologies and evolving user behaviours", The Electronic Library, Vol. 42 No. 6, pp. 1055-1073. https://doi.org/10.1108/EL-06-2024-0166