Flying books: a new frontier of mobile libraries in the era of Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR)

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore how drone technology can enhance the reach and efficiency of mobile library services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. It aims to evaluate the potential of drones in overcoming traditional access barriers, improving resource distribution and fostering greater community engagement through advanced service delivery mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a qualitative approach to explore the integration of drone technology in mobile library services, framed within the context of the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR). Drawing literature from databases such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate and Scopus, it also presents a case study of drone-enabled library services implemented in rural communities of Nigeria. The study focuses on the practical aspects of drone deployment, the impact on underserved communities and the challenges faced, offering insights into the logistical and operational dynamics of this innovative service model. Findings The study reveals that drone technology significantly improves access to library resources, particularly in hard-to-reach and disaster-prone areas. Drones offer an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to conventional mobile libraries, cutting operational costs by 60% and reducing delivery times by 40%. Despite these advantages, the implementation process encountered challenges such as financial sustainability, community skepticism and the need for specialized staff training. Originality/value The study contributes to the evolving discourse on mobile library innovations, positioning drones as a practical and sustainable solution for expanding library services in the 5IR era. It provides new perspectives on the logistical, social and environmental benefits of drone-enabled libraries, emphasizing their potential to enhance digital literacy, aid in disaster recovery and build stronger community connections.