Digital Innovation at King Fahad National Library: A Case Study on the Library's Catalogue System and Its Effectiveness for Users

Abstract

This paper assesses the usability and functionality of the digital catalogue system in storing and disseminating information using questionnaires and feedback from King Fahad National Library users. The goal was to evaluate the transition from print-based cataloguing to a digital system, compare how users engage with the new format, assess user satisfaction, identify challenges faced during the transition process, and recommend future strategies. An online questionnaire was conducted using Qualtrics. The responses obtained from fifty participants indicated a high level of user satisfaction which was further affirmed by 94% of the respondents stating that the system was easy to use and 96% expressed willingness to recommend the system. However, success in these areas was accompanied by several general adaptation difficulties, including initial technical problems and the requirement for users' help. The study revealed success factors that include planning, adequate consultation of stakeholders, and use of technical support during and after implementation. Future suggestions include more frequent updates to the system software as well as increasing user training and constant feedback. The existing study has some constraints, though; it was conducted in a single institution, the number of participants with responses was small, and the study only incorporated quantitative data. Ideally, future research must include multiple libraries, use longitudinal study design, and combine qualitative measures. Consequently, this research establishes the significance of achieving a balance between the use of technologies and the users' satisfaction to ensure the provision of efficient library services in the digital age.