Libraries have always been a gathering place for people and knowledge.

Now, they are omnipresent as Digital Libraries. These digital libraries have changed the way we access knowledge and information by offering everything on a global level. People no longer need to go to a library to read a book or search for any book. They can use digital libraries which can be accessed anytime, anywhere. What’s next? 

Well, the library industry has seen a paradigm shift in the past few years. Libraries are increasingly partnering with patrons to transform how they use their libraries. This is primarily because the changing needs of users have made it important for them to be more collaborative and interactive with libraries. This is where technology comes into the picture.  Libraries have been long-time adopters of technology and have used different types of technology to entice new patrons, making processes easy in their libraries. The future of libraries is full of opportunities to expand, collaborate, and streamline their data. Here’s a list of technologies that you can consider for your library. 

THE FUTURE OF LIBRARIES IN THE DIGITAL AGE 

CLOUD COMPUTING

Cloud computing has entirely changed the way libraries provide their services, and patrons have access to library resources regardless of geographical barriers. Now, libraries can provide services via the Internet- public or private network. Cloud computing helps libraries to build an information landscape, develop extensive library collections with e-books, e-journals, e-research papers, etc. and meet the needs of the changing digital landscape with ease. Libraries can make searching for resources a hassle-free process for patrons as the cloud-based LMS are empowered with robust search engines. Similarly, library staff can streamline their processes and keep better track of the usage of library materials. Library Management System like iSLIM Cloud is the best choice if you are planning to introduce cloud computing to your library. 

OPEN SCIENCE

Open Science refers to the use of open access to academic research data and articles. It is not just about sharing knowledge with the public, but also about being able to reuse scientific findings in a swifter way. Open science promotes transparency in all stages of research, which helps in better collaborations between libraries and scientists. It also reduces delays in the re-use of the results of scientific research. With this new system, scientists can easily share their research with their peers and collaborators, while libraries can get access to high-quality databases that help them curate information more effectively. This emerging technology is a boon for libraries and patrons. 

BLOCKCHAIN

Libraries are finally starting to embrace the potential of Blockchain, a distributed ledger technology. From developing metadata standards to integrating blockchain with digital collections, libraries are shifting towards a digitalized future. It provides new ways of securing information sharing, personalization, collaboration with a network of libraries, and host peer-to-peer sharing. It can protect the digital-first sale rights while still promoting sharing and engaging with others who have similar interests. 

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been used in many libraries to automate some of the processes of the library or help them manage their inventory better. This way librarians and other staff members can focus more on the management of the information and data rather than carrying out manual tasks. AI can help in filing, sorting, replacing the books on the shelf (on the category folders for digital libraries), sharing materials such as magazines, brochures, giving chat support, and answering the FAQs quickly. 

Thanks to the evolving technology and leading online library management system, such as iSLIM, for automating the processes of traditional and digital libraries. The above-mentioned technologies are available and have been implemented by the leading libraries across the world. However, the adoption rate of these technologies is yet to rise and impact libraries in mass. The future looks promising with these technologies. If you own a library and are all set to reinvent how your digital library works, now are the time to adopt the latest technologies and prosper!
At Algorhythms, we ensure our library management system software that manages all aspects of library management, from acquisition, cataloging to circulation, and more remains compatible to adapt to the upcoming technologies. Our customer support is always here to help you with the successful implementation and training of the library staff and patrons.  Get in touch with our team today!