The mediating effect of ethical values in smart sustainable library development

This study examines the relationship between smart and sustainable libraries in Malaysian public universities, focusing on ethical values. Data was collected from 342 librarians as a case study, and the results show that 8 out of 10 hypothesized constructs were significantly related to a smart sustainable library. However, ethical values played a mediating effect, positively influencing the development of smart library elements. The study's results are significant for stakeholders such as higher learning institutions, government policymakers, practitioners, smart library vendors, and academics specializing in smart and sustainable library practices. However, the limitations include the scope of the variables, respondents and measures used. Future research should consider expanding the study to include additional elements of smart libraries and involve a broader range of staff beyond librarians. This research aims to prepare future libraries to remain relevant and align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.