Overcoming financial barriers and resistance to technology adoption in university libraries in Bangladesh

Purpose This study aims to examine how financial constraints shape resistance to technology adoption in Bangladeshi university libraries, focusing on public sector Dhaka University Library. It explores not only how limited resources restrict procurement but also how financial uncertainty, sustainability concerns and perceived cost risks influence organisational and psychological readiness for technological change. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative case study design was used, using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with Library and Information Science professionals directly involved in digital service management and resource allocation. Data were analysed thematically using NVivo, supported by theoretical coding informed by Resource Dependence Theory and Resistance-to-Change Theory, and triangulation with secondary institutional documents to strengthen credibility. Findings This study identifies two interlinked financial barriers, budgetary constraints and cost-related risk perceptions, that significantly influence resistance to technology adoption. Beyond the lack of funds, rather than absolute budget shortages alone, concerns about sustainability, total cost of ownership and unclear return on investment generate anticipatory, organisational and psychological resistance. The findings highlight several strategies for reducing financial resistance, including structured multi-year planning, improved grant-seeking capacity, cost-effective technological choices such as sustainable open-source adoption, collaborative decision-making and targeted staff training. Practical implications This study provides context-specific and implementable guidance for library administrators and policymakers to strengthen technological readiness in resource-constrained institutions. Addressing financial uncertainty, improving lifecycle cost planning and aligning technological initiatives with institutional priorities are shown to be critical for enabling sustainable technology adoption. Originality/value This research advances understanding of the financial–psychological dynamics shaping resistance to technology adoption in developing-country academic libraries. By integrating empirical evidence with Resource Dependence Theory, Resistance-to-Change Theory and the Technology–Organisation–Environment framework, it offers a theoretically grounded and practically applicable framework for managing financial barriers and supporting digital transformation within Bangladeshi and comparable South Asian university libraries.