An IoT-Based Smart Library Framework for Enhancing User Experience in Malaysian Higher Education

Abstract

The increasing adoption of digital technologies in higher education has accelerated the transformation of conventional libraries into smart learning environments that enhance operational efficiency and user experience. However, many academic libraries continue to face challenges such as misplaced books, limited visibility of study seat availability, and the inability to monitor in-library reading activities, resulting in inefficient resource management and increased staff workload. This study presents an Internet of Things (IoT)-based Smart Library Management System that integrates an ESP32 microcontroller, RFID RC522 modules, FSR402 pressure sensors, cloud computing, and a web-based dashboard to enable real-time monitoring and automation of library operations. RFID technology is employed to verify book locations and detect misplaced items, while pressure sensors monitor seat occupancy to provide users with real-time availability information. In addition, the system records the duration that books remain off the shelves to identify in-library reading activities, providing valuable insights into resource utilisation. Sensor data are transmitted via Wi-Fi to a cloud platform, enabling centralized monitoring of book status, seat occupancy, and library usage through an interactive dashboard. Prototype evaluation demonstrated reliable system integration with an average data transmission latency of approximately 180 ms, while the total prototype cost of RM121.54 demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a cost-effective smart library solution. To complement the technical evaluation, a user acceptance and usability survey involving 70 respondents indicated strong support for the proposed smart library features, particularly real-time seat occupancy monitoring and automated misplaced-book detection. Overall, the proposed framework provides a practical, scalable, and user-centred solution that supports Smart Campus initiatives by improving library services, enhancing operational decision-making, and promoting more efficient resource management in higher education institutions.