Exploring the landscape of libraries on smart devices: a systematic literature review using PRISMA

Purpose The systematic literature review aims to highlight the transformative influence of mobile technology in reshaping library services for Library and Information Science (LIS) professionals and users. Design/methodology/approach The selection of relevant literature utilized the PRISMA-20 guidelines and a systematic literature review, wherein 39 articles were meticulously examined from a pool of 198. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to articles retrieved from the Scopus database and Google Scholar, focusing on data from 2018 to 2023 and excluding all the literature except journal articles. Findings The results demonstrate a significant awareness among LIS professionals and users regarding adopting mobile-based library services. Nonetheless, the adoption of mobile technology in libraries faces impediments from internal and external factors. These challenges encompass the need for coherent policies and practical issues such as insufficient financial resources, limitations in infrastructure, unpredictable electricity and Internet connectivity. The study also highlights concerns related to data security, the digital divide, a shortage of IT experts and inadequate staffing. The findings suggest that libraries must navigate this evolving landscape to provide improved and more accessible services to their users. Practical implications This study addresses a gap in the existing research by contributing to the literature on using mobile technology for accessing library services and resources. The findings aim to assist LIS professionals in developing plans, policies and strategies for implementing mobile-based library services. Originality/value The results of this study contribute to improving and expanding current mobile-based services in libraries, ensuring that information and resources are universally accessible “on the go environment.”