Editor’s Note: This guest post has been authored by Shaharima Parvin (Senior Assistant Librarian at East West University in Dhaka, Bangladesh) and Md. Abdul Latif (Assistant Librarian at East West University in Dhaka, Bangladesh).
Libraries have always been the centers of knowledge and community. With the advancement of technology, changes in libraries should also occur to ensure user needs are met. In Bangladesh especially in academic libraries there is a lot of possibility of applying Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The IoT is a network of interconnected physical devices, including vehicles, home appliances, and other objects, embedded with electronics, software, and sensors. These devices communicate with each other through network connectivity. In the context of libraries, IoT can improve operational efficiency, automate processes, and enhance the user experience by making services more interactive and accessible.
Highlighted Advantages of Using IoT Technology in Libraries
- The inventory system becomes more effective: The use of RFID tags along with automatic shelving systems make check-ins/check-outs easier while saving space.
- Environmental monitoring becomes better: Heat sensors, humidity sensors, as well as pollution sensors help to maintain ideal conditions for books or artefacts belonging to libraries. The sensors not only preserve the collections but also contribute to the overall well-being of users by maintaining healthy air quality and comfortable environments.
- Individualized services: IoT enables libraries to offer personalized services, such as real-time notifications for users (such as overdue books, new arrivals), customized reading or learning recommendations based on user preferences and interactive environments that enhance learning experiences.
- Stronger operations: Automated systems reduce the manual effort required to manage tasks which makes it simpler to use resources like time, money, or personnel efficiently. Also, automated systems contribute to safety by minimizing human errors or risks that might occur during manual processes.
Currently, among library practitioners in Bangladesh, IoT is generally understood and viewed favorably, but its application is mostly limited to certain technologies like RFID, wireless networks, and cloud computing. Some university libraries have installed RFID technology under the Higher Education Quality Enhancement Project (HEQEP) funded by the World Bank to provide world-class services to patrons. However, a few libraries have also self-funded the installation.
Opportunities for IoT Applications in Libraries of Bangladesh
IoT technology offers a wide range of features, including book tracking, book reservations, self-guided tours, special collection exhibits, online payments, user authentication, and self-check-in and checkout of documents. In addition, it can be used for equipment monitoring (printers, scanners, photocopiers), room utilization tracking, marketing and promotions, collection management and curation, and safety systems such as evacuation and fire alarms. IoT can also be utilized for navigation assistance using proximity and ultrasonic sensors. For instance, when a user approaches a shelf, the sensor could activate a display that shows the available books or provides information about the section. Furthermore, for users with visual impairments, proximity sensors can create tactile cues or audible alerts, making it easier to navigate the library and locate materials.
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Image Credit: Shaharima Parvin via Flickr
Challenges
While IoT presents opportunities, its implementation also brings new challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the mindset toward adopting new technologies. Many library professionals prefer traditional systems and are resistant to change, particularly when technology is involved. Other challenges include:
- High initial costs: The purchase and integration of IoT devices can be expensive.
- Technical complexity: Integrating IoT devices with existing library systems can be challenging.
- Data management: IoT generates large amounts of data that must be securely stored and analyzed.
- Privacy concerns: Collecting and storing patron data raises privacy concerns.
- Scalability: As libraries grow, IoT systems must be able to accommodate increasing numbers of devices and data.
- Vendor dependency: Libraries may become reliant on specific vendors for IoT solutions.
- Ethical considerations: Using patron data ethically involves transparent practices and respecting privacy.
- Legal compliance: Libraries must adhere to data protection regulations.
- Lack of knowledge and skills: Library staff may need training to effectively manage IoT devices and systems.
- Infrastructure limitations: Uninterrupted internet connectivity and electricity supply can be challenges in rural areas.
We have mentioned before the lack of knowledge and rigid mindset. Recently, the Dr. S. R. Lasker Library, East West University (EWU) has taken significant steps to explore the potential uses of IoT and AI in its services. In 2020, the library introduced an internship program designed to provide library and information science students with hands-on experience in the field. In September 2024, an innovation session was held with students from EWU and Noakhali Science and Technology University to discuss the transformative potential of IoT in modern libraries.
Although the students acknowledged that IoT had strong potential to improve library services, their main issues were whether it was too expensive and not sustainable in implementation. To overcome these challenges, libraries must invest in infrastructure development, skill development, cost-effective solutions, and data protection measures. The interns believe that IoT in academic libraries entails the development of smart libraries, akin to smart cities and homes, presenting the opportunity to fully automate the library environment.
Overcoming Challenges and Driving Adoption
To overcome challenges and realize the full potential of IoT in libraries, investments in infrastructure development, skill development, cost-effective solutions, and data protection measures are crucial. The integration of IoT in academic libraries in Bangladesh is still at an early stage; however, initiatives such as Bangladesh Research and Education Network (BdREN) are substantially contributing to digital infrastructure development in the country. Such progress sets a good ground for libraries to widely embrace IoT solutions. This adoption should be expedited through collaboration among government, academia and private sectors.
Investing in IoT technology will modernize libraries enabling them to improve on user experience and serve the changing demands of their clientele better. Before committing to these technologies, academic libraries must conduct a thorough analysis of all the costs and benefits related to them. One-time costs include infrastructure upgrades and system integration but staff training and the hiring of skilled IT professionals are continuous investments. By measuring the potential benefits such as the decrease of manual tasks from automation, customer satisfaction caused by better services, and saving resources through the inventory optimization libraries can foresee substantial long-term gains. Additionally, to lessen the effects of drawbacks such as high expenses and lack of technical knowledge, libraries can initiate collaboration agreements and consider a phased implementation approach.
There is a global trend where libraries are trying out innovative ways of dealing with emerging issues facing them to remain relevant in this digital era. It is time to prioritize and concentrate on capacity building among library professionals in Bangladesh to adopt and enhance the technological skills to meet the situation to come.
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