Library 5.0 and Immersive Technologies in Ghanaian Academic Libraries: The Role of VR and AR in Transforming User Experience

Silas Adjei; Florence Dedzoe-Dzokotoe Plockey

doi:10.70112/ajist-2026.16.1.4363

Authors

Silas Adjei Research Support Unit, Library, Pentecost University, Sowutoum, Ghana
Florence Dedzoe-Dzokotoe Plockey University Library, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70112/ajist-2026.16.1.4363

Keywords:

Library 5.0, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Academic Libraries, User Experience

Abstract

Emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are redefining user engagement in academic libraries, particularly within the evolving framework of Library 5.0, which emphasizes personalization, collaboration, and intelligent systems. In Ghana, the integration of these immersive technologies remains relatively unexplored, necessitating an examination of awareness, adoption, and their potential impact on library services. This study aims to investigate the role of VR and AR in transforming user experiences in Ghanaian academic libraries. Specifically, it examines the level of staff awareness, the extent of technology use, perceived benefits, and the challenges affecting their adoption within the Library 5.0 context. A descriptive research design was employed to collect quantitative data from ninety (90) professional and paraprofessional staff across three major universities: the University of Ghana, the University of Cape Coast, and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect responses, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with SPSS version 25.0. The findings revealed low awareness of Library 5.0 and immersive technologies, with most respondents reporting minimal or no familiarity. The extent of VR and AR use was also limited, as more than half of the respondents indicated no implementation of such technologies in their libraries. Despite this, respondents recognized the potential benefits of VR/AR in enhancing remote learning, supporting research engagement, and improving information retrieval. Major barriers identified included high equipment costs, inadequate technical expertise, poor internet connectivity, low digital literacy, and limited policy support. The study concludes that VR and AR adoption in Ghanaian academic libraries is still at an early stage but holds significant potential to revolutionize library services by offering personalized, interactive, and inclusive experiences. To foster sustainable integration, the study recommends strategic investments in infrastructure, staff training, digital policy formulation, and collaborative initiatives among academic institutions.

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