The global research trends in information communication technology in libraries: a scientometric analysis of evolving patterns and key contributions

Purpose This study conducts a comprehensive scientometric analysis of global research on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in libraries from 2004 to 2023. It aims to examine publication trends, citation impact, leading contributors, collaborative networks, institutional productivity, repositories, and thematic developments to map the evolving research landscape of ICT-driven library services. Design/methodology/approach A scientometric approach was adopted using data retrieved from the OpenAlex database. A total of 8,458 records were initially collected, and remove 147 duplicate and incomplete records through data cleaning in OpenRefine. The study employed descriptive statistics and network analysis using VOSviewer, RStudio, and Microsoft Excel. Co-authorship, citation networks, keyword co-occurrence, institutional collaboration, country-level partnerships, and repository contributions were analysed to provide a multidimensional understanding of ICT research in libraries. Findings The study analysed 8,311 publications, which collectively received 55,775 citations, with an annual growth rate of 1.30%. Journal articles accounted for over 81% of total publications. The number of publications increased steadily over the period, reaching a peak of 596 publications in 2021. The United States and India, emerged as leading contributors to research output and collaboration networks. Institutional collaboration analysis identified 274 interconnected organizations across 22 clusters. Thematic analysis highlighted key research areas such as information literacy, digital library services, web-based technologies, and ICT applications in developing communities, reflecting a strong focus on digital transformation and user-centered services. Practical implications The findings provide evidence-based insights for policymakers, librarians, and academic institutions to guide ICT investment, strengthen collaborative research, enhance digital literacy initiatives, and support strategic planning for technology-enabled library services. Originality/value This study provides a large-scale global scientometric perspective on ICT in libraries using OpenAlex data. It addresses the limitations of region-specific studies by providing a comprehensive analysis of global trends, collaboration patterns, and thematic evolution, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of ICT-driven transformation in library and information science.