Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Innovative Library and Information Service Delivery

Abstract

Fourth industrial revolution is associated with a lot of changes that intends to enforce digitalization, network and virtualization in every aspect of life. It has to do with automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies which are based on digital technology. The fourth industrial revolution is considered as a phenomenon offer by digital technology revolutions that foster libraries to assume new thinking towards information service delivery. Libraries now use Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, smart phones, social media, cloud computing, robots in combination with RFID technology and data of bibliographic record to give access to the patrons and general users quality library services through cutting-edge technology. Such kind of newest technology is considered to be the part of the fourth industrial revolutions. More so, the 4IR will bring about a change that will enhance new competences and also result in adjusting and updating of Library and Information Science curriculum that will correspond with the current trends/ Implication of the 4IR challenges traditional boundaries of disciplines. It requires interdisciplinary and collective competencies that integrate knowledge and skills from the fields of machinery production, electronics and information technologies.