Academic Libraries and Their Patrons' Digital Data Privacy

a systematic literature review

Abstract

This systematic literature review is performed to analyse the current state and gaps in knowledge of user data security in libraries. It explores the critical issue of digital data privacy for patrons in academic libraries, examining the evolving landscape of information technology and its impact on data security. The data were collected from well-known databases, that as, Library Information Science and Technology Abstracts (LISTA), Library and Information Science Abstracts (LISA), Emerald Insight, Scopus, and Web of Science. It followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to choose relevant articles with keyword searching. It was identified from the review that this digital expansion raises concerns about the privacy and security of patrons' personal information. Various threats and vulnerabilities are identified, encompassing hardware and software security, network security settings, data security, third-party applications, RFID systems, and the IoT environment. Challenges such as the lack of regulatory policies, limited access to resources, inadequate training and awareness, connectivity issues, and technical
challenges are also highlighted. To mitigate these challenges, potential strategies are proposed, including implementing artificial intelligence and block chain technologies, pseudonym and obfuscation techniques, and leveraging authentication systems like Shibboleth, etc. This research addresses a critical and evolving concern in the modern library environment, where the security of user digital data is paramount. The research provides practical recommendations for enhancing digital data security in library settings and has the potential to influence the way libraries approach information security and user privacy.