Library as a Service (LaaS): Innovating Resource Sharing Among Universities

Abstract

Traditional libraries are being forced to change their standard idea with the growing demand of professional masses in this age of digital change. This paper discusses the concept of Library as a service (LaaS), a new form through which universities can share resources meant to make them easily findable, more efficient for use, and better for working with together. Python-based LaaS makes use of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology to come up with an autonomous library network an interacts with the libraries in different places or institutes. The model would enable easy sharing of materials—books, study papers, data sets, and even video content—by the schools invited to join it. It solves many vital issues concerning traditional library systems: relative lack of space, money problems, and somewhat unreasonable duplication of resources. Leveraging cloud technology, LaaS has actively facilitated colleges in merging their physical stock into one online library accessible by students and faculty members from any place with a link to the World Wide Web. This reduces not only the cost of keeping actual collections but also increases the resources available, resulting in the learning experience becoming complete and open to every individual alike. One of the primary components that would make LaaS work better is artificial intelligence. The latter allows the development of intelligent multiple search and advice systems that make it easy for users to access the correct information. AI-based data also provide insight to libraries on how users interact with their collections and services to optimize them for higher user satisfaction. Blockchain technology maintains the security and transparency of the deals conducted within the framework of the LaaS network through an open but unchangeable record of trading resources and interaction with them. This paper reflects on several case studies and testing projects at various universities as the potential benefits that LaaS offers.