E-Books and Next-Generation Discovery Systems: A Thematic Review of Cataloguing Challenges

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17821/srels/2026/v63i2/172046

Keywords:

Discovery Systems, E-books, Library Catalogues, Metadata Quality, Next-Generation Library Services, OPAC

Abstract

The evolution of library catalogues and Online Public Access Catalogues (OPACs) from static bibliographic records into interactive discovery systems has integrated digital resources, metadata, and user-centred interfaces. In this connection, e-books take centre stage in next-generation cataloguing systems with their associated complexities, metadata and access challenges. This study examines and analyses these aspects by reviewing the existing literature. It explores technological, policy, and user-centric dimensions, offering insights into metadata, quality, automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and usability. The results showed three main findings, which included the tensions between professional cataloguers and automated systems in cataloguing work, the need for standardised metadata systems, and the requirement for fair access to information in different cultural and linguistic settings. The findings indicate that future cataloguing needs to be developed to achieve efficient operations through human-AI systems and to create adaptable governance systems that will guide material cataloguing toward equal accessibility for all cultural and linguistic groups.

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Published

2026-06-11

How to Cite

Kanaujia, S., Biswas, A., Chand, M., Rani, M., & Jain, R. K. (2026). E-Books and Next-Generation Discovery Systems: A Thematic Review of Cataloguing Challenges. Journal of Information and Knowledge, 63(2), 65–77. https://doi.org/10.17821/srels/2026/v63i2/172046

Issue

Volume 63, Issue 2, April 2026

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Information and Knowledge

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All the articles published in Journal of Information and Knowledge are held by the Publisher. Sarada Ranganathan Endowment for Library Science (SRELS), as a publisher requires its authors to transfer the copyright prior to publication. This will permit SRELS to reproduce, publish, distribute and archive the article in print and electronic form and also to defend against any improper use of the article.

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Europe PMC
Received 2026-03-23
Accepted 2026-06-09
Published 2026-06-11

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