Libraries as Hubs of Innovation and Learning in the Digital Age: A Research Mapping and FGD Analysis

This research aims to understand the role of libraries in the present-day world with special emphasis on Society 5.0. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research consisted of two phases: an exploratory phase aimed at identifying main topics and issues and a qualitative phase based on focus group discussions with students from various courses. Consequently, it has been ascertained that digitalization has not only positively impacted the ease of accessing academic practices and resources but has also reshaped academic behaviours and enlarged the quantity of available tools. However, students also faced some specific difficulties related to technical experiences and the diverse environment of digital libraries. Nonetheless, libraries remain essential in enhancing student performance, representing diverse perspectives, and increasing user satisfaction indices. Furthermore, students shared general perceptions about libraries as vibrant and contextual environments that embrace technological advancements to enhance users’ experiences, accessibility, and innovative services. This study underscores the tenacity of libraries in their strategic evolution in embracing digital technology while emphasizing the indispensability of the library in students’ learning process. These findings highlight the importance of libraries as the key to determining the development of education and research in Society 5.0.