Editorial: “Leadership in the digital library: navigating the evolving landscape”

This issue of Digital Library Perspectives offers an in-depth look at the multiple challenges and opportunities that contemporary libraries face in the constantly evolving digital landscape. From research data management to the integration of artificial intelligence and the use of immersive technologies, the articles collected here highlight the need for proactivity and innovation by digital libraries to remain relevant and continue to effectively serve their communities.A central theme in this issue is the pivotal role of leadership in shaping the digital library’s future. Effective leadership transcends mere resource management; it encompasses foresight, strategic planning, and cultivating an environment of continuous adaptation.Specifically, transformational leadership in digital libraries is about inspiring and motivating staff to drive significant change within the evolving digital landscape. Such leaders articulate a clear digital vision for enhanced services and user interaction, fostering innovation and experimentation with new technologies. They cultivate a culture of continuous learning and growth, empowering staff to take ownership of digital initiatives and champion essential investments in cutting-edge technologies. Ultimately, transformational leaders catalyze change, guiding their organizations through the digital age by inspiring a shared vision, empowering their teams, and nurturing adaptability and innovation.Furthermore, an individual’s readiness and ability to “step up” in digital transformation is more critical than their age or career level. This applies not only to those in formal leadership roles but also to the wider library workforce and even the users themselves. Leaders must actively foster an environment where staff are empowered to develop new skills, experiment with emerging tools, and embrace change. This commitment involves investing in professional development, fostering a robust learning culture, and providing ample opportunities for growth. Transformational leaders, in particular, are instrumental in initiating this shift, ensuring a supportive environment for ongoing skill development, technological exploration, and a proactive acceptance of change through continuous professional development and a culture of sustained learning.This DLP issue presents a series of studies that reflect the diversity and complexity of current challenges for digital libraries, each implicitly or explicitly underscoring the need for strong leadership.The contribution by Muhammad Saad and Ayesha Khalid “Entrenching social media marketing in water and power development authority (WAPDA) Libraries” explores the optimization of social media marketing platforms for Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) libraries in Pakistan. It highlights the significant impact of social media, particularly Facebook, in enhancing the public image of libraries and extending services to remote communities, emphasizing the economic benefits of this approach.Hassan Mallam M. Ibrahim, Kamsuriah Ahmad and Hasimi Sallehudin propose “A cloud-based adoption model for digital preservation services for university libraries”. Their literature review identifies critical factors influencing the successful adoption of cloud computing, offering practical insights and a migration strategy.Omorodion Okuonghae in “Advancing information literacy through immersive technologies in the metaverse age: a rapid review” examines how libraries are promoting information literacy through immersive technologies in the metaverse era. His rapid review highlights the potential of VR and AR for information access, learning, and community engagement, while acknowledging barriers related to costs and technical expertise.Anna Mohamed Namala, Camilius A. Sanga and Philbert Nyinondi in “Investigating health information sources and factors influencing information seeking behavior in the digital age among first-time mothers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania” investigate health information sources and factors influencing digital information-seeking behavior among first-time mothers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The study reveals the importance of healthcare professionals, family members, and internet sources.Dilara Begum and Md. Hasinul Elahi in “Readiness to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) in libraries: a study from the lens of information professionals of Bangladesh” explore the readiness of information professionals in Bangladesh to adopt artificial intelligence in library operations and services. The qualitative study indicates a positive perception towards AI, while also identifying challenges such as data privacy and ethical concerns.Muhammad Hamza and Ahsan Ullah in “Sustainability of digital preservation at university libraries of Pakistan” analyze the sustainability of digital preservation in university libraries in Pakistan. The results indicate that sustainability measures are in place for policies, technologies, and strategies, highlighting the continuous need for practical approaches and cutting-edge technologies.Siviwe Bangani in “Artificial intelligence integration in academic libraries in South Africa: a Web analysis” investigates the practical applications of artificial intelligence in South African academic libraries through web content analysis. The study reveals a commitment to AI, but limited evidence of the use of advanced AI tools, concluding with a call for AI policies, investment, and skill development.In an interview with Maria Luisa Russo “The role of Heritage Preservation in Peacebuilding”, the role of heritage preservation in peacebuilding is discussed. While digitization is a vital tool for access and safeguarding endangered heritage, Russo stresses its limitations in replicating physical objects and underlines the continued importance of physical conservation. The preservation of cultural heritage is shown to help heal societal wounds by allowing local, trained staff and community members to reconnect with their identity after natural disasters or conflict. Involvement in cataloging, preservation, and digitization efforts helps individuals re-establish routine, provides income, and offers training and experience, particularly for younger generations.