Investigating public libraries’ preparedness for the Fourth Industrial Revolution: a case study of the National Library of South Africa, Pretoria.

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is an important emerging sociological phenomenon that has the potential to reconfigure libraries, societies and people throughout the world. The 4IR introduces technologies and trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, robotics and artificial intelligence. The introduction and popularization of the 4IR has challenged the traditional thinking of libraries as physical or brick and-mortar locations where access to information is available in a physical or electronic format. The shift into the 4IR has challenged libraries to adapt to the changing technologies, where access to information can be efficient, quicker and easier. Scholars and researchers have discussed the 4IR technologies in libraries and have alluded to the need for proactive libraries to respond to the 4IR. The study aimed to investigate the library’s preparedness in anticipation of the 4IR, using the lens of the National Library of South Africa (NLSA). The subject of analysis was the staff of the National Library, which included the library management staff and librarians knowledgeable in technology use at the National Library. The study was guided by the Technology Readiness Index (TRI). The pragmatism paradigm was employed, using quantitative research methods to draw both numerical and narrative approaches. Data was collected using a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed through content analysis and the use of SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science) software descriptive analysis and presented in the forms of figures. It was found that most respondents believe that 4IR might be essential to improving and making tasks easier for librarians. The results contrast with the popular belief that librarians reject the tools. The respondents are optimistic about the 4IR although skeptical about the innovations of the revolution. It was also discovered that challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of funding, unstable electricity supply, inadequate skills and lack of exposure to international standards hinder technology preparedness. In addition, the study contributed to strategies, policy developments, adequate preparation and practice and also added to the existing knowledge of 4IR.