THE INTERSECTION OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL BEHAVIOR IN LIBRARY USE

Abstract

This research will investigate how digital transformation affects information seeking behaviours and user engagement and user interaction with use of the library and its implications of a relationship between technology and social behaviour. Over the last few years, some of the more sophisticated digital technology has been employed in libraries for providing improved services and improving accessibility. A broad range of technologies are involved such as online catalogs, electronic databases, digital repositories, mobile apps and self-service kiosks. The developments have led to high efficiency and convenience; however, they have also changed the usual social context of the library. The study in this research adopts quantitative approach in studying the relationship between the technological adoption and the social response of the users in academic library and general library respectively. A total of 103 respondents from a variety of genders, age groups and education levels were asked to fill out a common questionnaire. The large mean scores for the main variables indicate that the use of digital technologies has a positive effect on independent learning, accessibility of information and on general satisfaction with the use of digital technologies.Yet, the study also shows that with the increased use of the technology comes a decrease in the line of communication between users and library workers, which consequently affects connections between them in a way.However, the study also indicates the decrease in human interaction between the user and the library staff members, thus affecting the traditional communication patterns.

Keywords: Digital Libraries, User Behavior, Technology Adoption, Social Interaction, Digital Literacy.