Interwoven on-site and online

A geographical analysis of the significance and determinants of digital library services

Bibliographic Data

ID5292402
AuthorsK C Lin (0000-0003-3586-4290, Zhejiang University), Kunyang Lin (0009-0001-4007-8481, School of Public Affairs Zhejiang University Hangzhou China), Jiebing Wu (0000-0002-3890-9995, School of Public Affairs Zhejiang University Hangzhou China)
Year2025
Volume191
Issue4
Publication date2025-07-22
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueGeographical Journal (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0016-7398 • E-ISSN: 1475-4959
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/geoj.70038
OpenAlexW4412556638
LanguageEN
References cited42

The provision of digital services is crucial for libraries to promote broader and more equitable access to information. Prior research has demonstrated that digital services including those provided by libraries are significantly shaped by socioeconomic influences, resulting in geo-graphic disparities analogous to those observed in the real world. However, current research has not fully addressed which regions rely most heavily on digital libraries. This study aims to address this gap by analysing city-level data on library services in China to delineate the spatial patterns that characterise the significance of digital library services. Furthermore, the research integrates both internal and external factors to explore the determinants influencing the perceived importance of library services across diverse regions. The findings indicate that the significance of digital library services is affected by enhancements in internal service quality, as well as external variables, such as users' digital literacy and their readiness to engage with these services. This suggests that, although digital library spaces reflect the socioeconomic dynamics present in the real world, their non-spatial nature enables them to cater to a wider audience. By elucidating the key factors that shape the importance of digital library services, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between digital and physical environments

Data science · Economic geography · Geography · Library science · Regional science · World Wide Web · Computer Science · E-Government and Public Services · ICT Impact and Policies · ICT in Developing Communities

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