Metaverse Technologies And Innovation in Academic Library Service Delivery: Librarians’ Awareness, And Perceived Relevance for User Engagement

Abstract

Obinyan Oluwatoyin Oyeyemi

This study examined metaverse technologies and innovation in academic library service delivery, focusing on librarians’ awareness, perceived relevance for user engagement, and adoption challenges. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected through an online questionnaire administered via Google Forms to academic librarians, with 196 responses found usable for analysis. Descriptive statistical techniques were used to analysis the data. The findings revealed a moderately high level of awareness of metaverse technologies among academic librarians (grand mean = 2.82), indicating general familiarity but limited institutional engagement. The study also found a high perceived relevance of metaverse technologies for enhancing user engagement (grand mean = 3.10), particularly in interactive learning, virtual library tours, and collaborative services. However, the adoption of metaverse technologies was constrained by significant challenges (grand mean = 3.13), notably inadequate technical infrastructure, high implementation costs, and limited staff training. The study concludes that although metaverse technologies hold considerable promise for innovating academic library services, their effective adoption depends on sustained institutional support, targeted capacity development, and strategic investment in digital infrastructure. The study provides empirical evidence to inform planning and policy decisions regarding immersive technologies in academic libraries.

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