Industry 5.0 – the human centric solution and personalization: challenges and opportunities for libraries

Purpose Industry 5.0 is considering a paradigm shift from mass production to mass personalization and a human-centric model of services using modern technologies. This study aims to examine the Industry 5.0 and its applications in various sectors. It also pinpoints the possible challenges and opportunities for libraries promoting library services, resources, infrastructure and spaces to attract the modern library users. Design/methodology/approach Relevant literature on the topic was searched using keywords including Industry 5.0, modern technologies, artificial intelligence, sustainability and green shift and libraries. The researcher also used his experience and the initiatives of the Punjab University Library, which is the oldest and largest university in Pakistan, to promote personalization and user-centered approaches. Findings Findings revealed challenges and opportunities for libraries. Using Industry 5.0, Libraries have the potential to understand users’ preferences, browsing history and information behavior, and accordingly design their services, resources, infrastructure and spaces. Libraries can serve their modern users through personalization and human centric approach such as content recommendations, alert and notification services, customized research assistant, inclusive and accessibility services, personalized event services and personalization through human books. Practical implications Professional library associations, library schools, library directors and libraries need to proactive learn and apply Industry 5.0 while establishing library services, resources, infrastructure and spaces. Library schools need to design their curriculum considering the Industry 5.0 technologies, tools, and platforms. Originality/value This study provides a pen picture of the Industry 5.0 and its impact on libraries. Potential challenges and opportunities are highlighted. These all initiatives required a visionary library leadership to take initiatives toward human-centered personalized services and attract the modern library users.