Exploring User Perceptions in Academic Libraries

A Comprehensive Review of Trends, Challenges and Future Directions

Abstract

This review study examines the user perceptions of the academic libraries that users have concerning
what services they value, the problems they face, and their expectations in the fast-digitalising
world from 2015 to 2024. Following a relevance check, all studies that were related to user
satisfaction, service quality, technology adoption, and the impact of both physical and virtual
spaces were selected. The analysis was conducted thematically so as to find common patterns and
changing views. Findings indicate that users are allowed to have a blend of both digital and
traditional resources, with reliable access to e-resources, use of friendly platforms, and supportive
staff. Mobile application usage, emerging digital literacy initiatives, inclusive practices, and
innovations in technology, including AI-powered solutions and personalisation, are also among
the key trends. There have been challenges in the fields of bridging digital divides, enhancing
usability, and harmonizing physical and virtual library experiences. This review helps provide a
synthesized opinion on how perceptions are changing among users of academic libraries. It puts
emphasis on user-centred, technology-supported, and inclusive methods, which are best practices
to gain insight into librarians, researchers, and policymakers to enhance the pertinence of libraries
to academic societies.