Internet of Things Technologies in Smart Library: Navigation and Collection Automation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32461/2409-9805.2.2026.362112Keywords:
SMART library, Internet of Things (IoT), RFID, indoor navigation, collection automation, smart shelves, self-service, inclusivity, digital transformation of librariesAbstract
The purpose of the article is to analyse and systematise the main areas of application of the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in a SMART library, focusing on the automation of library collection management (RFID, smart shelves, self-service) and indoor user navigation (BLE beacons, mobile applications, interactive kiosks), as well as to assess the prospects for implementing these solutions in Ukraine. The research methodology is based on the comprehensive application of general scientific and special methods, including analysis and synthesis, comparative analysis, case study method, and a systemic approach. Scientific novelty of the study lies in the fact that for the first time in Ukrainian library science, a systematic analysis of two key areas of IoT application in a SMART library – collection automation and indoor navigation – as interrelated components of a single intellectual space has been carried out. Conclusions. IoT technology is the foundation for the transformation of traditional libraries into SMART libraries, ensuring collection automation, intelligent navigation, and improved quality of user services. Indoor positioning systems based on BLE beacons, Wi-Fi, and UWB, integrated with mobile applications and interactive kiosks, can reduce document search time by up to 30% and create an inclusive environment for people with visual impairments. RFID technologies combined with smart shelves, self-service kiosks, and automated book drops reduce check-in/check-out time from 10–15 seconds to 2–4 seconds per document, reduce inventory labour costs by up to 70%, and improve the accuracy of collection management. International experience (Singapore, Finland, USA) demonstrates the effectiveness of comprehensive IoT implementation, achieving a self-service rate of over 90% and significantly optimising staff work. In Ukraine, the implementation of IoT in libraries is constrained by high equipment costs, outdated network infrastructure, cybersecurity risks, insufficient digital competence of staff, and the lack of state support programmes.
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