Digitalisation of libraries in Europe is one of the most important challenges in the culture and education sectors. From a paper catalogue to a modern interactive platform — this is a journey that changes not only how a library works, but also its role in the community. A modern library is no longer just a repository of books — it is an information centre, a community space, a learning platform and a provider of digital services. In this article, we will look at the stages of library digitalisation, the challenges involved and the concrete steps that can be taken today.
From paper to digital catalogue: the first stage
Many libraries in Europe have already completed the first stage of digitalisation — the move from a paper catalogue to an electronic one. However, even this seemingly simple step has its own nuances and challenges.
An electronic catalogue is not just a copy of a paper catalogue on a computer. It is a fundamentally new tool that:
- Provides search: a resident can find a book in a few seconds instead of browsing through cards
- Shows availability: whether the book is on the shelf, on loan, or when it will be returned
- Allows reservations: a book can be reserved even if it is currently with another reader
- Integrates with other libraries: through a shared catalogue, books can be found not only in one’s own library, but also in other libraries
LIBIS (the Lithuanian integrated library information system) operates in Lithuania and connects most libraries in the country. However, not all libraries fully use the system’s capabilities. Some still work with outdated software versions or do not have sufficient technical knowledge to use the system effectively.
eBook lending: a new level of service
eBook lending is one of the fastest-growing library services in Europe. In Europe, this service is still only finding its way, but the potential is enormous.
How eBook lending works
The principle of eBook lending is similar to that of physical books: the library acquires a licence that allows a certain number of simultaneous loans. The reader “borrows” an eBook through an app or website, downloads it to their device, and after a set period (usually 14–21 days) access is automatically terminated.
Advantages of eBook lending for the library:
- No physical wear: an eBook never wears out, tears or gets lost
- 24/7 availability: a reader can “borrow” a book at any time, even at night
- No physical space needed: eBooks do not take up shelf space
- Access from anywhere: residents in remote areas get the same choice of books as residents of big cities
- Accessibility features: font enlargement, background changes, text-to-speech — this is especially important for older readers and those with visual impairments
Challenges
The main challenges of eBook lending in Europe are the limited selection of eBooks in the local language, the licensing price model (publishers sometimes charge libraries higher prices than individual buyers) and the digital literacy level of residents, especially older people.
Community engagement platform
A modern library is much more than a place to borrow books. It is a community centre — a place where events, discussions, training and creative workshops take place. A digital platform can strengthen and expand this community role.
Event management
Libraries host dozens of events every month — from book launches and author readings to children’s programmes and digital literacy training. A digital event management system allows:
- Online registration: participants register through the website instead of by phone
- Automatic reminders: the system automatically sends reminders before the event
- Participant statistics: a clear picture of how many people registered, how many attended, which events are most popular
- Hybrid events: the option to take part both in person and remotely
- Feedback: automatic surveys after the event that help improve the programme
Digital community
A library can also create a digital community — a forum or discussion platform where readers can share recommendations, discuss books and suggest new purchases. This strengthens the connection between the library and its readers and builds loyalty.
Accessibility for all age groups
One of the biggest challenges of library digitalisation is ensuring that digital services are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, technological literacy or disability.
Older residents
Older residents are often the most active library users, but digital technologies can be challenging for them. Solutions:
- Simple and intuitive interface: large buttons, clear instructions, fewer steps
- Training: regular digital literacy sessions designed specifically for older people
- Personal support: the option to get help by phone or in person
- Gradual transition: do not remove physical services until digital ones are fully adopted
Children and young people
For younger audiences, digital technologies are natural, but the library has to compete with games, social networks and other digital entertainment sources. Solutions:
- Gamification: reading challenges, achievements, rankings — this turns reading into a game
- Interactive content: interactive stories, educational games, creative platforms
- Coding and STEAM sessions: the library as a place to learn technology
- Young reader profile: personalised recommendations based on age and interests
People with disabilities
The library’s digital platform must comply with accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA level). This means:
- The website and app must be usable with screen readers
- Video content must include subtitles and audio descriptions
- Navigation must work using only the keyboard, without a mouse
- Contrast and font size must be sufficient
Integration with national systems
Library digitalisation does not happen in isolation — it must integrate with other national systems and networks:
- LIBIS: the Lithuanian integrated library information system — the main catalogue and circulation management system
- eBibliotheca: an eBook platform connecting European libraries
- Europeana: the European digital cultural heritage platform, to which libraries can contribute digitised content
- National Martynas Mažvydas Library: coordinating many digitalisation initiatives
- Municipal information systems: integration with the municipality website and service portals
Integration requires standardised data formats (MARC21, Dublin Core), API interfaces and clear data exchange protocols. This is technically complex, but necessary to create a coherent library ecosystem.
Practical digitalisation plan: step by step
If your library is planning digitalisation or wants to update existing digital solutions, here is a recommended action plan:
Stage 1: Assessment of the current situation (1–2 months)
- Assess the existing technological infrastructure — servers, computers, internet connection
- Survey staff and readers about their needs and expectations
- Identify the biggest “pain points” — where digital solutions are most lacking
- Review which national systems you already use and how effectively
Stage 2: Website and catalogue update (2–4 months)
- Create or update the website with integrated catalogue search
- Ensure the website is mobile-friendly, fast and meets accessibility standards
- Implement reader account functionality — the ability to see borrowed books, renew loans and reserve items
- Optimise the website for search engines (SEO)
Stage 3: Service expansion (4–8 months)
- Implement an eBook lending system
- Create an event management and registration system
- Start content marketing — a blog, a social media strategy
- Implement feedback collection tools
Stage 4: Community platform (8–12 months)
- Create a digital community space — a forum, discussion groups
- Implement personalised recommendations based on the reader profile
- Start digitising content — local history, digital copies of rare publications
- Integrate with national platforms (Europeana and others)
Stage 5: Analytics and improvement (ongoing)
- Monitor usage statistics — which services are most popular, where there are gaps
- Regularly survey users
- Improve and expand services based on data
- Keep up with the latest technology trends (AI, automation)
Funding opportunities
Library digitalisation can be funded from various sources:
- EU structural funds: digitalisation and cultural heritage programmes
- Ministry of Culture programmes: targeted grants for library modernisation
- Municipal budget: investment in public services
- Project-based activity: international partnership projects (Creative Europe, Erasmus+ and others)
- Private sponsors: business and cultural partnerships
To assess the costs of digitalisation for your library more accurately, you can use our calculator — it will help you estimate the size of investment needed for different stages of digitalisation.
Success stories
Here are some trends from European libraries that can also be applied in Europe:
- Danish libraries: fully integrated digital platforms with personalised recommendations, digital content and community functions
- Estonian libraries: integration with e-government infrastructure, single sign-on via national identity
- Finnish libraries: the Oodi library in Helsinki as a technology, culture and community centre with the most advanced digital infrastructure
- Dutch libraries: a strong eBook lending programme and digital literacy training
These examples show that library digitalisation is not just a technical task — it is a strategic decision that changes the role of the library in the community.
Tobalt solutions for libraries
We offer digital solutions specially tailored for libraries, including website development, catalogue integration, event management systems and other tools needed by a modern library. Each solution is adapted to the specific library’s needs, size and budget.
Conclusions
Library digitalisation is not a one-off project, but a continuous evolution. From a paper catalogue to an interactive community platform — each step brings tangible benefits both to the library and to its readers. The most important thing is to start with a clear plan, implement it consistently and regularly assess the results.
A modern library is a living, dynamic organisation that can and should be at the forefront of the digital age. Investment in digitalisation is an investment in the community’s future, education and cultural life. No matter what stage you are at — first steps or advanced solutions — the key is to keep moving forward and not stop.
Would you like to start your library’s digitalisation journey? Get in touch with us and we will discuss the steps you can take today.