Augmented Reality in the Libraries of Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences

So far, many technologies have entered the world of libraries, and it is essential for librarians to know how to employ these tools to enhance library services. This study aimed to extract the components of augmented reality (AR), and to present a model for the use of it in the libraries of universities of medical sciences.

This study adopted a qualitative approach, had an applied goal, and was based on data theory. The participants comprised 20 experts of AR, and the data were collected based on in-depth, semi-structured interviews until achieving theoretical saturation. A model was proposed after open coding and the formation of the main categories.

The category of application included strengthening education, promoting user’s information literacy, finding resources, user guidance, gamification, knowledge sharing, educational justice, helping management, enriching resources, providing new services, helping individuals with disabilities, promoting the professionalism of librarians, and economic savings.

The results of this study seem to be essential for achieving fourth-generation libraries. Libraries can attract many users by implementing the right policies, using technology, and enriching the content of resources. AR is employed to help library management, improve the professional activities of librarians, and users.