A systematic literature review of the effects of virtual reality on innovative library services in academic settings

Purpose The study aims to identify the effects of virtual reality on innovative library services in academic settings. It also aimed to find out the challenges associated with virtual reality-based systems in academic libraries. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review (SLR) was applied to conduct the study. A total of 24 research papers published in peer-reviewed journals were selected to conduct the study. Required literature was retrieved through 12 different online databases. Findings The findings of the study showed that virtual reality assists in innovative smart library systems, personalized services, marketing of library products and transformation of library systems. Results also displayed that technical and infrastructure challenges, legal concerns and health issues cause challenges to the successful adoption and integration of virtual reality-based library services. Research limitations/implications The study has offered theoretical implications for future investigators by revealing different dimensions related to virtual reality in library services. It has also offered managerial implications for management bodies through the provision of practical recommendations to effectively implement virtual reality in academic settings. The study has a societal impact through the provision of theoretical, practical and social implications as it is expected to deliver positive outcomes in society by refining information services patterns. Practical implications It has also offered managerial implications for management bodies through the provision of practical recommendations to effectively implement virtual reality in academic settings. Social implications The study has a societal impact through the provision of theoretical, practical and social implications as it is expected to deliver positive outcomes in society by refining information services patterns. Originality/value To the best of authors’ knowledge, it is the first study on the effects of virtual reality on innovative library services in academic settings through a systematic literature review (SLR) methodology. The study is expected to serve as a valuable benchmark for librarians to refine the information systems in universities.