Need for Meta-Literacy: A Theoretical Analysis of Librarian–User Preparedness in the Metaverse Era

Abstract

Metaverse which is one of the contemporary technologies that is shaping the way information is acquired and managed in the digital ecosystem entails the acquisition of special skills for both the librarians and the library user to be able to harness the gain of digital togetherness and the associated experience. This paper discusses the need for meta-literacy for librarians and library users in this era of metaverse with also focus on importance of metaverse in libraries, benefits of adopting metaverse in the library and why there is need for meta-literacy for both the librarians and the library users as well as the challenges against the application of metaverse technology in libraries. Apart from discussing metaverse as a concept as well as meta literacy from the point of digital literacy, the paper based on the literature reviewed noticed that metaverse could be used for virtual services in that with it, libraries can offer virtual reference services, virtual tours, virtual exhibitions, and virtual learning spaces, in events where Libraries can host Library and Information Science conferences and other events in the metaverse, in education and training through which Libraries can provide LIS education and training in the metaverse, provision of services for people with disabilities while with meta-literacy skills librarians will be better placed for the creation and dissemination of digital content, productive collaboration, and meaningful participation in online communities and that the potentials of the technology requires that both librarians and library users need to be meta-literate for them to gain the prowess to adeptly interact with digital information within the digital world of metaverse. The paper also discussed some challenges that can hinder the implementation of metaverse technology in libraries suh as, lack of robust technological infrastructure and access to requisite technology and equipment that may curtail some users' full engagement in the virtual. To harness the gains of metaverse technologies libraries the paper recommended among other things that libraries should encourage regular training and re-training as well as giving all desirable back-ups to digital librarians and library users, ensuring the up-to-date of their meta-literacy skills through workshops, webinars and online.