Digital Transformation and Curation in Academic Libraries: Perspectives, Practices, and Pathways

Abstract

Academic libraries are undergoing a profound transformation from being just a quiet location filled with traditional printed books and other physical materials, to become lively spaces allowing for greater engagement and access to a larger set of information that is now digital and online. This evolution reflects the widespread digitization of higher education and the intensification of demand for seamless access, collaborative platforms, and sustainable knowledge curation. This study looks at digital transformation in academic libraries, specifically in regard to collection development, analog-to-digital migration, preservation, metadata standards, interoperability, and cloud-based systems. Using a mixed-methods framework, composed of a literature synthesis, an institutional case study, and interviews with experts, this study highlights current practices, barriers to adoption, and a conceptual framework to consider in envisioning sustainable digital curation. The findings illustrate that while advancement in the technological elements of digital transformation is important, preservation, professional competencies, and policies that support the accessible, effective, and sustainable stewardship of academic resources must also be considered and pursued.