Transforming Library Services Through Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

Authors

  • Partha Sarathi Mandal Department of Library and Information Science, University of Burdwan, Bardhaman, West Bengal, India
  • Dr Sukumar Mandal Assistant Professor, Department of Library and Information Science, University of Burdwan, Bardhaman, West Bengal, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48165/lis.2026.12.01.03

Keywords:

Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Library services, Accessibility, Learning experiences, User engagement

Abstract

Libraries are shifting from traditional to virtual. Needs of users are also changing. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality play a significant role in enhancing library services. Such technologies are utilized to make libraries more interactive, engaging and involving. Present paper explains how such technologies can transform the character of library services in terms of interaction with the users, accessibility and experiences. VR offers an experience where one gets to learn information in an active and meaningful manner. Access to information and support is also improved under AR. These tools advance the interests of users and their interaction within the library. They also provide access to library services to users with cognitive, physical, and educational requirements. With regards to learning, VR and AR enable the users to learn in a better way, both visually and experientially. Some of these disadvantages include high cost, absence of technical expertise and need for an infrastructure. Regardless of all these obstacles, VR and AR have a wonderful chance in libraries in the future. They can support new services and improve the utility of libraries in a digital society. The paper concludes that these technologies would help libraries to survive and be more user-centered, flexible, and inclusive.

Author Biographies

  • Partha Sarathi Mandal, Department of Library and Information Science, University of Burdwan, Bardhaman, West Bengal, India

    Mr. Partha Sarathi Mandal is working as Librarian in shyamsundar Ramlal Adararsha Vidyalaya. He has completed his M.Phil; MLIS and M.A from the University of Burdwan and presently pursuing his PhD in the Department of Library and Information Science, the University of Burdwan.  He qualifies UGC-NET in 2019. He has published 29 research articles in various National and International journals. His area of interest includes: Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, Webometrics, Bibliometry, Multilingual Information Retrieval System, Semantic Web, Linked Open Data, and Open Knowledge System etc. Contribution in current study, he selected the research problem, designed the research methodology and collected data for the study.

  • Dr Sukumar Mandal, Assistant Professor, Department of Library and Information Science, University of Burdwan, Bardhaman, West Bengal, India

    Dr. Sukumar Mandal is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Library and Information Science at the University of Burdwan, India. He holds a PhD in Library and Information Science from the University of Burdwan. His scholarly work spans library automation, automated subject indexing, digital libraries, the semantic web, machine learning, artificial intelligence, linked open data, and open access. He has authored five books and published more than 105 research outputs, including journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters in reputed national and international forums. His contributions to this study encompass conceptualization, research design, and the intellectual shaping of the manuscript.

References

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Published

2026-06-30

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 1 (2026): LIS TODAY (Jun)

Section

Research Article

How to Cite

Transforming Library Services Through Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. (2026). LIS TODAY, 12(1), 17-23. https://doi.org/10.48165/lis.2026.12.01.03