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The purpose of this study was to develop a model for the digital transformation of university libraries based on meta-synthesis.

The approach of this research was qualitative and used the Sandelowski and Barroso’s (2007) seven-step meta-synthesis method to systematically review the literature. The statistical population of the research includes all the scientific publications related to the foundations and dimensions of the digital transformation of university libraries, counting the scientific publications retrieved from six scientific databases in the period from 2004 to 2022, and was based on the critical appraisal skills programme and a screening process.

Based on the retrieved publications, 32 documents were selected for further review and analysis. First, a separate code was considered for all the factors extracted from the selected documents, and then, considering the concept of each of the codes, they were categorized into a similar concept. In this way, the research concepts were determined. Based on the analysis done with the help of the content analysis method, there are a total of seven main categories and 24 concepts, including digital culture (including: digital attitude, user-oriented, agility, participation and cooperation, creativity and innovation and learning digital skills of employees), digital librarian (containing: individual competence, knowledge competence, communication competence and skill competence), digital manager (comprising: individual competence, knowledge competence, skill competence), digital services and resources (including, optimally reorganizing library resources, providing digital services to users and providing digital services to the mother organization), digital technologies (containing: digital infrastructure, technological readiness and using digital technologies), support and cooperation of upstream institutions and the mother organization (dealing with: providing human resources, providing technological resources and equipment and making macro policies) and work process and development of digital strategies (comprising: digitalization of processes and development of library digital strategies).

Digital transformation is a complex and multi-faceted process, yet it is an indispensable endeavour for university libraries, and managers and librarians cannot be expected to be familiar with these concepts without training or study and then be able to move in the right direction towards the digital transformation of libraries. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to develop a model for the digital transformation of university libraries. The results of this research indicate the effective factors and requirements needed for the digital transformation of university libraries and address the importance of understanding the concepts for managers and librarians.

This paper aims to design the digital transformation model for university libraries based on the Delphi method using the Iranian public university libraries as the study case.

A qualitative approach and the Delphi method were used to conduct the current research. In total, 15 experts in the field of digital transformation of libraries were selected through targeted and snowball sampling. They were asked to complete and finalize items identified from previous research to design a digital transformation model for public university libraries in Iran during successive Delphi rounds. The Delphi method was completed after the third round, upon reaching a favorable consensus.

The findings obtained from the research led to the presentation of the model in 7 main dimensions, 25 concepts and 139 components. Meanwhile, the concept of “data-centered” and changing the concept of “optimal reorganization of library resources” to the concept of “acquisitions and optimal reorganization of library resources” are among the new achievements of this research. In addition, the components of “promoting data-oriented thinking in the decision-making of library managers,” “encouraging employees to use and analyze data” and “planning to increase the digital literacy of librarians” were added to the concept of “data-oriented”; the components of “having knowledge of digital collection and its rules for the correct identification and evaluation of resources,” “familiarity with digital metadata standards and data transfer standards” and “familiarity with open access platforms” were added to the concept of “librarian knowledge competencies”; and the components of “planning, coordination,” “monitoring and evaluating the progress of library digital transformation projects” and “collaboration and networking with other academic library managers” in the concept of “library manager’s management skills”; the components of “identification of new digital formats and resources,” “creation, preparation and accessibility of game scientific content and free in the library,” “updating the resource organization policy with new organization concepts and rules” and “updating the library collection development policy based on the information needs of users” were added to the concept of “acquisitions and optimal reorganization of library resources” and “Web 2.0 technologies” component were added to the concept of “use of digital technologies in the library.”

This study is limited to Iranian public university libraries, and the findings may not be directly transferable to other contexts. In addition, the Delphi method, while effective for expert consensus, relies on subjective opinions and may not fully capture the complexities of digital transformation. Future research could explore the implementation challenges of the proposed model and its long-term impact on library services and user satisfaction. Despite these limitations, the study offers a valuable foundation for digital transformation initiatives in Iranian university libraries and can inform policy decisions and resource allocation.

The proposed digital transformation model offers practical guidance for Iranian university libraries. By implementing the model, libraries can enhance their services through data-driven decision-making, improved resource management and the adoption of new technologies. Librarians can develop the necessary digital competencies to effectively manage digital collections and engage with users. In addition, the model emphasizes the importance of collaboration among library managers, fostering knowledge sharing and best practices. Ultimately, the practical application of this model can lead to more efficient, user-centered and innovative library services.

The proposed digital transformation model for Iranian university libraries holds significant social implications. By enhancing access to information and resources, it can democratize knowledge and foster innovation. Increased digital literacy among librarians will equip them to better serve diverse user communities. However, equitable access to digital services must be ensured to prevent the widening of the digital divide. The model’s focus on data-driven decision-making can improve resource allocation and user satisfaction. By promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing, libraries can become more central to their communities and contribute to regional development. Ultimately, the success of this model depends on addressing potential challenges such as privacy concerns, digital security and the need for ongoing training and support.

The proposed model, with its 7 main dimensions, 25 concepts and 139 components, provides a roadmap for enhancing library services, resource management and decision-making. By emphasizing data-centered approaches, promoting digital literacy among librarians and integrating Web 2.0 technologies, libraries can adapt to the evolving needs of users. Collaboration and networking with other academic library managers can foster knowledge exchange and collective problem-solving. By implementing the proposed model, libraries can adapt to changing user needs, enhance services and contribute to the academic community’s success. However, implementing this model requires addressing challenges related to equity, privacy and accessibility, ensuring that all users benefit from the digital transformation. Overall, this research serves as a valuable resource for university library managers, guiding them toward effective digital adaptation and improved user experiences.