Scientific Research in Light of Virtual Libraries: A Foresight View of the Future of Libraries

Abstract

This article examines the state of scientific research in light of accelerating digital transformations, with particular emphasis on the role of virtual libraries and virtual reality technologies in shaping the future of libraries, research, and knowledge access. It presents scientific research as a fundamental pillar of development and as a major driver for addressing societal challenges. The article discusses several obstacles facing research in the Arab context, including limited funding, weak coordination between research and planning institutions, brain drain, and the shortage of researchers in vital scientific fields. It also refers to the development of the research system in the United Arab Emirates through growing attention to research governance and institutions dedicated to research and development. The article connects the improvement of scientific research with the adoption of digital life, arguing that information technology has become central to economic growth and quality of life, while recent crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the importance of remote work, learning, and research. The article concludes that virtual libraries and virtual reality libraries represent an important future direction. They provide access to information resources from anywhere, support lifelong learning, offer digital reference and research services, and give libraries a renewed role as educational and community-centered institutions capable of preserving heritage, expanding knowledge experiences, and strengthening interaction between users and digital resources.