Authors: Johnson Masinde, Mugambi Frankline, Daniel Wambiri Abstract: Over time, the field of librarianship has had to adapt due to factors such as technological advancements, which have significantly impacted the library landscape. This evolution has prompted librarians to reconsider their roles and responsibilities, as well as the future and long-term sustainability of conventional library practices and services. The recent past has seen a significant intensification of the debate surrounding the role and future of academic libraries, driven by the rapid advancements in technology. Traditionally, academic libraries have served as core pillars of university education, promoting learning, teaching, and research. However, institutions of higher learning are transitioning from traditional in-person teaching methods to online methods of instruction. Furthermore, an increasing number of students are opting for online modes of instruction instead of the traditional in-person classroom. This study was motivated by the need to explore the changing dynamics of academic libraries, influenced by the opportunities and challenges present in contemporary society. The research study conducted a foresight analysis of the potential characteristics at the convergence of academic libraries and the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) to uncover the significant trends and uncertainties that might not be immediately visible. Furthermore, it utilized both qualitative and quantitative research methods, providing a thorough analysis of the potential future of the academic library landscape. The Shawaz scenario planning process was utilized to assess the key drivers of change in academic libraries over time enabling the study to paint a picture of the plausible features with the study structured in three distinct phases: (i) the literature review to uncover the mega trends and uncertainties, (ii) the delphi survey involving 33 participants (iii) and the formulation of the scenario. Study findings from the first phase show a complex network of relationships among the major trends and uncertainties influencing the academic library landscape in both the short term and long-term future. In addition, the findings indicate that economic, technological, and political factors significantly influence the academic library landscape. Academic libraries are evolving into a more dynamic landscape adopting new roles and responsibilities such as digital archiving, data analysis support, and research data management services. The findings show that while earlier studies suggested that technological factors shape the academic library landscape, it is evident that economic and political factors also play significant roles in influencing this environment.
