Industrial Revolutions 5.0: Implications for Libraries and Librarians
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63880/jlii.v1i2.57Keywords:
Industrial Revolution 5.0, Industry 5.0, Libraries, Librarians, Human centric technologies, Emerging technologiesAbstract
Purpose: This study critically examines the concept of Industrial Revolution 5.0 and its implications for academic libraries and librarians. While existing literature largely associates Industrial Revolution 5.0 with manufacturing and industrial systems, research addressing its relevance to libraries remains fragmented and predominantly descriptive. The study aims to analyze the core values, enabling technologies, challenges, and opportunities of Industrial Revolution 5.0 within the academic library context.
Methodology: A qualitative structured literature review was adopted using content analysis. Thirty peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025 were retrieved from major scholarly databases, including Google Scholar, Taylor & Francis, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and indexed journals. The selected literature was analyzed thematically, focusing on human-centric values, sustainability, resilience, emerging technologies, and the evolving professional roles of librarians.
Findings: The findings reveal that Industrial Revolution 5.0 represents a shift from technology-driven automation to a human-centric, value-based paradigm. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, big data analytics, blockchain, the Internet of Things, and next-generation connectivity are reshaping library services, professional identities, and service delivery models. While libraries in developed countries demonstrate readiness for adoption, institutions in developing contexts face constraints related to skills, infrastructure, funding, and policy support. The literature also exposes gaps in ethical governance and contextual adaptation.
Implications: The study positions academic libraries as value-driven knowledge ecosystems rather than passive technology adopters. It highlights the need for context-sensitive strategies, ethical frameworks, and continuous professional development to ensure meaningful and inclusive implementation of Industrial Revolution 5.0 in academic libraries.
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