How Can We Promote Digital Transformation in College Libraries? A Study on Readers’ Intention to Adopt Digital Services

Abstract

In the Industry 4.0 era, digital transformation is crucial for college libraries aiming to improve reader service quality. The current research proposes various digital transformation initiatives for college libraries but ignores readers’ willingness to use digital services, which is key to a successful digital transformation. To better help college libraries in their digital transformation, this study explores readers’ willingness to use digital services from a perceived benefit–risk perspective. Using structural equation modeling, it examines factors that influence this willingness, like readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefit, and perceived risk. The results show that perceived benefits positively affect the willingness to adopt, while perceived risks have a negative effect. Readers’ attitudes and trust indirectly influence this willingness by affecting their benefit–risk perceptions. This study is practically significant for guiding strategies to boost readers’ willingness to use digital services, offering valuable insights for universities in digital transformation complexity.

1. Introduction

Libraries rely heavily on digital services for digital transformation [1]. To meet the needs of scholars and students, developing digital services in libraries is essential. Digital services offer online resources, digitized documents, and efficient search tools, enriching academic resources. They not only provide resources but also enhance the academic experience by creating a dynamic and tech-savvy learning environment [2]. Moreover, they streamline academic research, promoting efficiency and accessibility. These digital tools also impact knowledge dissemination positively, allowing for broader and quicker information sharing. Digital services are convenient and drive library advancement and modernization in the digital era [3].

Existing studies on digital library services focus on two crucial aspects of library service evolution and enhancement, with little attention paid to user adoption willingness. One aspect is improving service quality and the user experience [4,5], which is shown in the continuous refinement of digital library platforms to ensure functionality in line with technological changes. Intelligent search technology is developed to meet users’ information needs accurately and efficiently. The other aspect is expanding the scope and form of digital services [6,7], such as integrating e-books, academic journals, and multimedia materials to provide comprehensive and flexible academic support. Libraries are also becoming adaptive, tech-sophisticated knowledge dissemination hubs by using technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence [8].

Despite progress in enhancing digital library services, existing studies have not fully explored how factors like trust, attitude, and perceived risks and benefits influence users’ willingness to adopt digital services. Understanding readers’ adoption inclination is important for two reasons. First, library digital transformation success depends on users’ acceptance, as well as service availability and sophistication. Second, readers’ adoption willingness reveals their expectations, preferences, and concerns, which can form the basis of tailored strategies. So, addressing this research gap is crucial for digital library initiative decision-making and implementation.

This study fills the research gap by empirically investigating factors influencing readers’ willingness to adopt digital services. Using a perceived benefit–risk framework, these factors are categorized into four areas: readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and perceived risks. A research framework based on structural equation modeling is developed to explore the relationships between readers’ attitudes, trust, and perceptions of benefits and risks. Path analysis is used to identify and quantify the effects of each factor on adoption willingness. This study provides practical suggestions for libraries to optimize digital services and increase adoption willingness.

This study significantly contributes to library digital transformation. First, it addresses a key research gap by comprehensively examining readers’ adoption intention, highlighting the importance of understanding readers’ willingness for service design. Second, it identifies and quantifies factors influencing adoption willingness, categorizing them into attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and perceived risks for a structured understanding. Third, it offers practical insights and strategies for libraries in digital transformation, using modeling and analysis to reveal relationships and provide recommendations.

This paper is structured to systematically explore factors influencing readers’ willingness to adopt digital services in libraries. Section 2 reviews related works. Section 3 focuses on research hypothesis development. Section 4 explores the research methodology. Section 5 presents the results and discussion. Section 6 concludes by summarizing contributions, emphasizing practical significance, and suggesting future research.

2. Literature Review

2.1. Digital Services in Libraries

Industry 4.0, also called the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and automation into industrial processes [3]. It means a shift towards smarter, more interconnected systems for better efficiency, flexibility, and productivity. In college libraries, Industry 4.0 is important for digital transformation. It modernizes library services through automation, data-driven decision-making, and improved user experiences [1]. By using AI for personalized recommendations, IoT for easy access to resources, and big data for better library management, universities can turn traditional library systems into dynamic, innovative hubs that meet the needs of students, faculty, and researchers in the digital age. This integration is necessary to stay competitive and relevant in a technology-driven era.

The evolution of digital services has greatly affected libraries, changing how information is spread and accessed. One key part of this change is the digitization of library resources [9]. Digital libraries offer large online collections of academic materials, such as e-books, journals, and multimedia content. Digitizing documents not only preserves them but also allows for global access, breaking down physical boundaries [4]. Also, convenient search tools make information retrieval more efficient, helping users find relevant materials quickly. Integrating digital resources into the academic environment is essential, letting scholars and students access a lot of information very easily [10]. Moreover, digital library platforms are constantly improving. These platforms store and organize information and improve the user experience. Intelligent search technologies use algorithms to give accurate and customized results so users can quickly access relevant resources [5,11]. This makes the user interface more user-friendly for people with different levels of digital literacy. Using technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning improves intelligent content curation and recommendation, leading to a more personalized and efficient library experience [12].

Despite the great progress in digital library services, we do not fully understand readers’ willingness to use these services. While existing research focuses on improving service quality and expanding services, there is little research on the factors that affect readers’ intention to use digital services. This gap is important in digital transformation because its successful implementation depends on users’ active participation. Understanding readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and perceived risks is key to guiding strategies for promoting digital transformation in libraries. This paper aims to fill this research gap by using structural equation modeling to understand the complex relationships among these factors and promote digital transformation in libraries, especially focusing on readers’ intention to use digital services. While the evolution of digital services in libraries has improved access and functionality, understanding users’ willingness to use these services is still important for the success of digital transformation initiatives.

2.2. Readers’ Adoption of Digital Services

To understand the adoption of digital services in libraries, we need to examine the complex interplay of user attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors. Users’ acceptance of digital services is often influenced by their attitudes towards technology. Research shows that readers who see digital services as advantageous, efficient, and user-friendly, especially when meeting their academic needs, are more likely to adopt them [13]. The perceived ease of use and utility of digital platforms promote positive attitudes, emphasizing the importance of user-centric service design [14]. Also, readers’ previous experiences with digital tools shape their expectations and comfort levels, which can affect their willingness to use digital services in the library [15]. So, it is important to explore readers’ attitudes to assess the potential success of digital adoption initiatives.

Trust is crucial in determining readers’ willingness to adopt digital services. To fully use these services, users must trust the reliability and security of the digital platforms they use [16]. Building trust requires addressing concerns about data privacy, information accuracy, and the overall dependability of the digital infrastructure [17]. Research indicates that readers are more likely to adopt digital services when they trust the library’s ability to protect their information and provide a secure online environment [18]. To build trust, transparent communication about data practices and proactive measures to ensure the integrity of digital services are necessary [19]. Thus, trust is a fundamental element in the successful adoption of digital services in libraries.

Existing studies usually focus on general perceptions of digital services, without exploring the comprehensive impact on readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefit, and perceived risk. Although these studies offer valuable insights into the overall digital adoption situation, there is a significant gap in the literature regarding the interplay between these factors. Understanding how readers’ attitudes and trust shape their perceptions of benefits and risks and then influence their adoption intentions is an under-studied area. This gap shows the need for a more comprehensive and detailed research approach that considers the complex connections between readers’ psychological constructs and their decision-making processes in digital service adoption. This research aims to fill this gap by exploring the details of readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefit, and perceived risk as drivers of adoption behaviors in libraries.

3. Conceptual Framework and Research Hypotheses

This study’s conceptual framework is based on the theoretical lens of perceived benefit–risk [20], which provides a structured way to understand readers’ intention to adopt digital library services. The framework indicates that individuals assess the adoption of technological innovation according to the perceived benefits and risks of its use [21]. Perceived benefits include users’ expectations of better resource access, ease of use, and academic support. Perceived risks involve concerns about data security, platform reliability, and changes to the traditional library experience [14]. The balance between perceived benefits and risks determines users’ overall attitude and willingness to adopt the technology [19]. This framework is suitable for studying digital library services as it allows for a detailed examination of readers’ expectations, concerns, and decision-making processes when adopting these services.

Expanding on the perceived benefit–risk framework, the relevance of digital library services becomes clear as readers evaluate them. Readers assess the benefits of digital services, such as enhanced resource access, convenient information retrieval, and improved academic experiences. However, they also consider the potential risks of these services, like concerns about data security, digital platform reliability, and the impact on the traditional library experience. The relationship between perceived benefits and risks significantly affects readers’ attitudes towards digital services. These attitudes, in turn, strongly influence readers’ decisions on adopting or resisting these technological innovations in the college library. This dynamic interaction emphasizes the importance of comprehensively understanding readers’ perceptions to develop strategies that promote a positive attitude and encourage the successful adoption of digital services.

The factors influencing readers’ intention to adopt digital services within the perceived benefit–risk framework can be grouped into four main areas [22]. Readers’ attitudes, influenced by their perceptions of benefits and risks, are crucial in determining their intention to adopt digital services. Trust in the digital service provider, reflecting the perceived reliability and security of the services, is a key factor in readers’ decision-making. Perceived benefits, which include the advantages users expect from digital services, positively affect the intention to adopt. Conversely, perceived risks—representing users’ concerns and potential drawbacks—negatively affect readers’ intention to adopt digital services. This framework enables a detailed exploration of the multi-faceted dynamics influencing readers’ adoption behaviors, providing a solid basis for formulating research hypotheses. Based on the perceived benefit–risk framework, we propose a conceptual framework for understanding the factors influencing readers’ willingness to adopt digital services, as shown in Figure 1.

3.1. Attitude and Intention to Adopt Digital Services

In the framework of perceived benefits, readers’ attitudes are seen as a reflection of their perception of the advantages and positive results of adopting digital services in libraries. Positive attitudes may come from benefits like better access to abundant resources, convenience of information retrieval, and an overall improvement in the academic experience. This view is in line with the existing literature showing a positive correlation between users’ favorable attitudes and the successful adoption of digital services [23]. College education studies have always stressed the importance of users’ positive attitudes as a precursor to adopting technological innovations, underlining the key role of attitudes in shaping users’ willingness to use digital services [20].

Readers’ attitudes can be affected by their perception of potential risks in adopting digital services. Worries about data security, digital platform reliability, or the impact on the traditional library experience may lead to negative attitudes. Previous research has emphasized the importance of dealing with users’ perceived risks to promote a positive attitude and encourage adoption [15]. So, it is necessary to address these concerns and reassure users. Combining these frameworks with insights from previous research gives rise to Hypothesis 1, which suggests a positive correlation between readers’ attitudes and their willingness to adopt digital services. Thus, based on perceived benefits and risks, readers’ attitudes are a critical factor in determining their inclination to accept digital services in the college library context.

Hypothesis 1:

Readers’ attitudes positively affect their intention to adopt digital services.

3.2. Trust and Intention to Adopt Digital Services

In the context of perceived benefits, trust is crucial for readers’ intention to adopt digital library services. Readers’ trust depends on their confidence in digital service reliability, security, and overall dependability [24]. Trust in digital services is often affected by perceived benefits like data security, platform credibility, and seamless user experience. This aligns with previous research stressing the importance of trust in technology adoption, indicating that users’ trust in new technology is a key factor in their adoption choice [25]. Moreover, college education research constantly emphasizes the significance of trust in promoting users’ adoption of digital innovations.

A reliable digital environment is vital for promoting adoption since users’ perception of digital service-related risks shapes their trust in those services. Concerns such as data security breaches, service unreliability, or doubts about platform credibility can erode trust. Previous research shows that addressing perceived risks is essential for fostering trust and increasing the intention to adopt digital services [26]. Combining these frameworks with existing research insights suggests a positive correlation between readers’ trust and their intention to adopt digital services. Readers’ trust is a crucial factor influencing their willingness to adopt digital services in college library settings [19]. Thus, Hypothesis 2 is proposed:

Hypothesis 2:

Readers’ trust positively affects their intention to adopt digital services.

3.3. Perceived Benefit and Intention to Adopt Digital Services

The existing literature shows that users’ perception of digital services’ benefits is crucial to their adoption intention. Studies indicate that when users perceive benefits like better resource access, convenient information retrieval, and improved academic experiences, their adoption intention increases [21]. There is a well-documented positive correlation between perceived benefits and adoption intention in college education. Thus, readers’ intention to adopt digital library services will be positively influenced by their perceived benefits, based on multiple studies’ consistent findings highlighting the importance of perceived benefits in driving adoption decisions [27].

The literature suggests that addressing the perceived risks of digital services is crucial for promoting positive benefit perceptions [28]. When users are confident in digital platforms’ reliability and security, their perceived benefits increase. This combination of perceived benefits and risks, supported by previous research, strengthens the logic behind Hypothesis 3. Readers’ perceived benefits, shaped by positive perceptions and reduced risks, are expected to be positively related to their intention to adopt digital library services [29]. This is consistent with the current knowledge on technology adoption, highlighting the complex relationship among perceived benefits, risks, and adoption intention in college education.

Hypothesis 3:

Readers’ perceived benefits positively affect their intention to adopt digital services.

The existing literature consistently shows that users’ attitudes towards technological innovation significantly influence their perception of associated benefits [30]. In digital higher education services, studies show that technology-positive users are more likely to perceive benefits like enhanced resource access, convenient information retrieval, and improved academic experiences. Based on the consistent trend in the literature, it can be deduced that users’ positive attitudes magnify their perception of digital services’ advantages [31]. The relationship between attitudes and perceived benefits, as documented in various technology adoption studies in educational settings, supports this deduction. Thus, readers’ attitudes are likely to positively affect their perceived benefits when adopting digital library services.

Hypothesis 3a:

Readers’ attitudes positively influence their perceived benefits of digital services.

Previous research suggests that users who trust digital services’ reliability and security are likely to perceive greater benefits. In libraries, readers who trust the service provider may feel more certain of digital services’ benefits, such as better resource access, streamlined information retrieval, and enhanced academic experiences [32]. Logically, readers’ trust has a positive influence on their perceived benefits. This means that those who trust the service provider are more likely to recognize and value the advantages of adopting digital services [33]. Therefore, Hypothesis 3b is formulated to state this expected relationship: readers’ trust has a positive impact on their perceived benefits when adopting digital library services.

Hypothesis 3b:

Readers’ trust positively influences their perceived benefits of digital services.

3.4. Perceived Risk and Intention to Adopt Digital Services

Many studies show that users’ perceived risks regarding a technological innovation greatly influence their adoption intention. For example, if a reader thinks their data may be at risk when using a library’s digital services, this fear may reduce their intention to use those services. In digital library services, research has shown that concerns about data security, digital platform reliability, and potential disruptions to the traditional library experience are key factors in users’ perceived risks [34]. According to the literature, users who perceive higher risks are usually more reluctant to adopt digital services. Thus, we can conclude that readers’ perceived risks will negatively affect their intention to adopt digital library services. This conclusion is supported by the relationship between perceived risks and adoption intention seen in various technology adoption studies in educational settings [35].

Also, studies constantly show that reducing perceived risks is vital for increasing users’ adoption intention. Lower perceived risks positively affect users’ perception of service benefits [36]. When users are confident about data security and platform reliability, their perceived risk is reduced, which positively affects their willingness to adopt digital services. Conversely, when they perceive risk in digital library services, their adoption willingness decreases [35]. Through this combined analysis of perceived benefits and risks, we can infer that increasing patrons’ perceived risks negatively affects their willingness to adopt digital services in university libraries.

Hypothesis 4:

Readers’ perceived risk negatively affects their intention to adopt digital services.

Previous research on technology adoption and user attitudes has shown a negative relationship between readers’ attitudes and their perceived risks. The existing literature consistently shows that users’ attitudes towards technological innovation significantly influence their perception of related risks [37]. Research has shown that individuals with positive attitudes toward technology are more likely to perceive lower risks when using digital library services [31]. This positive attitude acts as a cognitive buffer, reducing users’ concerns and perception of potential drawbacks. Therefore, we propose that readers’ attitudes negatively affect their perceived risks when adopting digital services in libraries.

Hypothesis 4a:

Readers’ attitudes negatively affect their perceived risk.

Previous studies have constantly shown that users’ trust in a technological innovation significantly influences their perception of related risks [38]. The negative relationship between readers’ trust and their perceived risk is based on previous research on the role of trust in shaping users’ perceptions of risks. Studies have shown that trust in digital platforms is linked to lower perceived risks in digital services. Trust reduces concerns about data security, platform reliability, and potential disruptions to the traditional library experience [39]. Therefore, we claim that the relationship between trust and perceived risk is negative when readers adopt digital services in libraries, which is in line with the literature on the negative correlation between trust and perceived risk in educational technology adoption.

Hypothesis 4b:

Readers’ trust negatively affects their perceived risk.

4. Research Methodology

4.1. Data

This study collected data over a specific period (March–May, three months) to ensure consistency and relevance. This period was chosen according to the academic calendar to obtain diverse responses from college library users, considering students’ and academics’ availability and engagement for a representative sample. A structured questionnaire, designed based on the existing literature related to technology adoption, benefit–risk frameworks, and digital services in college education, was used to measure factors like readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and risks influencing their intention to adopt digital services.

Samples were collected from multiple Chinese universities across different regions for better representativeness and generalizability. A target sample size of 500 was set to ensure sufficient statistical power and account for non-responses, enabling the detection of significant relationships among college library users. Questionnaires were distributed both physically (in libraries) and electronically (using an online survey platform). Systematic data collection emphasized informed and voluntary participation. A pilot survey was conducted on a small group before the main data collection to test the questionnaire’s clarity and effectiveness. Data validation checks were also carried out to deal with inconsistent or outlier responses. This strict data collection method aims to improve the reliability and validity of collected information for subsequent analysis. Invalid questionnaires with over 10% unanswered questions or identical/inconsistent responses across all items (suggesting inattention or lack of comprehension) were excluded. After exclusion, 447 valid questionnaires were collected, with an effective response rate of about 89.4%. The study participants had a diverse demographic profile. Their ages ranged from 18 to 45 years, mostly in the 20–25 age group (72.14%). They had different educational backgrounds (undergraduate, postgraduate, faculty) and a fairly balanced gender distribution (53% female, 47% male) and were from multiple academic disciplines, as shown in

Table 1. Participant profiles (N = 447).

Measures	Items	Frequency	Percent
Age	Under 20	44	9.84
	20–25	322	72.04
	Over 25	75	16.78
Academic affiliations	Undergraduate student	294	65.78
	Postgraduate student	97	21.70
	Faculty member	56	12.53
Gender	Male	212	47.43
	Female	235	52.57
Subject backgrounds	Social sciences	78	17.45
	Natural sciences	92	20.58
	Humanities	72	16.11
	Engineering	93	20.81
	Business and management	86	19.24
	Others	26	5.82

.

4.2. Measures

To capture the nuances of readers’ intentions to adopt digital services, readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and perceived risks are measured using a seven-point Likert scale, a widely used method in social science research for gauging respondents’ agreement or disagreement with statements (ranging from ’1’ for strongly disagree or significantly less’ to ’7’ for strongly agree or significantly more). This enables a nuanced understanding of participants’ perceptions of the key factors. Reader attitudes towards digital services in the university library are assessed through a three-item Likert scale, which is based on the established literature on technology adoption and user experience in academic libraries. Respondents show their agreement or disagreement with statements reflecting their overall evaluation of digital services, ensuring a nuanced understanding of readers’ sentiments like enjoyment, perceived academic enhancement, and overall satisfaction. Trust in digital services is measured through a three-item Likert scale. Based on the literature about user trust in digital platforms and services, the scale assesses readers’ confidence in the reliability, security, and dependability of the university library’s digital services, including items about trust in personal information protection, confidence in the digital library platform’s reliability, and overall trust in security measures.

The perceived benefits of digital services are measured through a three-item Likert scale. Based on the literature on the advantages of technology adoption in academic settings, it assesses readers’ perceptions of the benefits of using digital services in the university library, such as access convenience, academic efficiency improvements, and overall positive impact on academic experiences. The perceived risks associated with digital services are measured through a three-item Likert scale. Based on the literature on technology-related concerns and privacy issues, it assesses readers’ apprehensions regarding digital service use in the university library, exploring concerns like privacy issues, impacts on the traditional library experience, and other perceived risks. Readers’ intention to adopt digital services is assessed based on the established literature on technology adoption and user behavioral intentions, aiming to capture their inclination to embrace and use digital services in college libraries.

Table 2. Measurement items.

Variable	Measurement Items
Attitudes	I enjoy using digital services in the library.
	Digital services enhance my academic experience.
	Overall, I am satisfied with the digital services provided.
Trust	I trust the library’s digital services to protect my personal information.
	I have confidence in the overall reliability of the digital library platform.
	I trust the security measures implemented by the library.
Perceived benefits	Digital services provide me with convenient access to a variety of resources.
	Using digital services improves my efficiency in academic research.
	Digital services positively impact my academic experience.
Perceived risks	I am concerned about potential privacy issues with digital services.
	I am concerned about the impact of digital services on the traditional library experience.
	I worry about the reliability of digital services.
Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	I foresee myself using digital services frequently in the future.
	I am open to exploring and trying out new features and functionalities offered by digital services in the library.
	Given the choice, I prefer using digital services over traditional library services.

shows the measurement items of the above five variables.

4.3. Reliability and Validity Tests

To ensure the robustness of the scales in this study, three key aspects of validity and reliability—unidimensionality, reliability testing, and discriminant validity [40]—will be assessed. The unidimensionality of each construct is assessed via factor loadings from confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Factor loadings show the relationship strength and direction between each observed variable and its underlying construct. A high factor loading (usually > 0.7) means the items measure a single underlying dimension [41]. This analysis is crucial for confirming that the items selected for each construct contribute to the intended latent variable measurement and are not confounded by unrelated dimensions.

Table 3. Results of assessment on unidimensionality, testing, and discriminant validity.

Variables	Items	Loading	CR	AVE
Attitudes	AT1	0.821	0.901	0.751
	AT2	0.875
	AT3	0.853
Trust	TR1	0.808	0.870	0.690
	TR2	0.854
	TR3	0.830
Perceived benefits	PB1	0.792	0.856	0.664
	PB2	0.837
	PB3	0.815
Perceived risks	PR1	0.761	0.837	0.632
	PR2	0.804
	PR3	0.819
Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	RI1	0.827	0.881	0.711
	RI2	0.864
	RI3	0.839

shows CFA factor loadings. Each item’s factor loadings range from 0.761 to 0.875, all above the 0.6 thresholds, indicating strong associations between observed variables and their latent constructs (reader attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, perceived risks, and readers’ intention to adopt digital services). Loadings represent the relationship strength and direction between observed variables and underlying constructs. Here, the unidimensionality assessment results show a robust connection, meaning the selected items effectively measure the intended latent constructs.

Reliability testing uses the Composite Reliability (CR) measure. CR indicates internal consistency and assesses how well items in a construct measure the same underlying concept. A CR value over 0.7 is acceptable, showing a reliable scale [42]. This analysis reveals the consistency and stability of measurement items, ensuring the study’s scales produce consistent results and accurately capture the constructs. Discriminant validity is assessed by Average Variance Extracted (AVE). AVE measures the variance captured by the construct relative to measurement error variance. An AVE value above 0.5 indicates good discriminant validity [43]. This analysis ensures each construct is distinct and its items effectively measure the intended latent variable without being overly influenced by other unrelated dimensions.

The experiment results show the measurement scales in this study are highly reliable and valid. Specifically, construct CR values exceed the 0.7 threshold, showing high internal consistency and reliability. Also, construct AVE values are 0.751, 0.690, 0.664, 0.632, and 0.711, all above the 0.5 recommended threshold.

Table 4. Discriminate validity.

Variables	Attitudes	Trust	Perceived Benefits	Perceived Risks	Readers’ Intention to Adopt Digital Services
Attitudes	0.856
Trust	0.512	0.832
Perceived benefits	0.604	0.553	0.820
Perceived risks	0.472	0.431	0.489	0.802
Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	0.681	0.614	0.726	0.532	0.838

shows the discriminant validity test results: the AVE square root (diagonal values) of all constructs is greater than their correlation coefficients with other constructs, indicating good discriminant validity. These AVE values confirm this. Each construct is distinct and the items effectively measure intended latent variables without other-dimension interference. Overall, these results confirm this study’s measurement scales are valid and internally consistent and that they can accurately and reliably measure readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and perceived risks regarding their intention to adopt digital services in university libraries. These assessments contribute to this study’s overall robustness and credibility.

5. Data Analysis and Results

5.1. Structural Model (PLS-SEM)

This study employs structural equation modeling (SEM), specifically partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), to analyze the complex relationships among readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, perceived risks, and their intention to adopt digital services in higher education libraries. PLS-SEM, a robust statistical method, is suitable for exploring relationships in complex models with latent and observed variables. It enables simultaneous examination of the measurement and structural models. PLS-SEM is ideal for this study, which aims to uncover the nuanced factors influencing readers’ intention to adopt digital services, especially in the prediction and understanding of complex phenomena.

PLS-SEM is well-suited to empirical studies in social science and technology adoption for several reasons. First, it has fewer distributional assumptions, making it suitable for smaller samples and non-normally distributed data. This flexibility is important in real-world empirical studies where data may not meet strict normality assumptions. Second, PLS-SEM is good at handling complex models with multiple latent and observed variables. This study involves intricate relationships between readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, perceived risks, and their intention to adopt digital services, so PLS-SEM is an appropriate choice to disentangle these relationships. Finally, PLS-SEM can estimate both formative and reflective constructs, considering the diverse nature of model variables. Given the multidimensional aspects of readers’ perceptions and behaviors in adopting digital services, PLS-SEM’s flexibility is crucial for effectively capturing these relationships.

The structural equation model demonstrates a good fit to the data based on multiple fit indices. The ${\chi }^2/df$ ratio is 2.456, which is below the acceptable threshold of 3.0, indicating an adequate fit. The CFI (0.956), NFI (0.921), IFI (0.957), TLI (0.943), and GFI (0.912) values all exceed the recommended value of 0.90, suggesting a well-fitting model [44]. Furthermore, the RMSEA value is 0.048, which is below the 0.06 threshold, reinforcing the model’s good fit [41]. These results collectively indicate that the proposed model provides an excellent fit to the observed data, confirming its validity and reliability.

5.2. Empirical Results

Empirical results (

Table 5. Empirical results.

Pathway	Standardized Path Coefficient ($\mathit{\beta }$)	p-Value
Readers’ attitudes → Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	0.350	<0.001
Readers’ trust → Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	0.253	<0.001
Readers’ perceived benefit → Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	0.307	<0.001
Readers’ attitudes → Readers’ perceived benefit	0.402	<0.001
Readers’ trust → Readers’ perceived benefit	0.284	<0.001
Readers’ perceived risk → Readers’ intention to adopt digital services	−0.224	<0.001
Readers’ attitudes → Readers’ perceived risk	−0.265	<0.001
Readers’ trust → Readers’ perceived risk	−0.249	<0.001

) show significant direct effects between consumers’ perceived benefits and their willingness to adopt digital services. The positive effect means that as consumers perceive more benefits like better resource access, convenience, and enhanced academic experience from digital services, their adoption willingness rises. This aligns with the existing literature on technology adoption emphasizing the central role of perceived benefits in shaping user intentions. Conversely, consumers’ perceived risks have a negative direct effect on their adoption willingness. That is, as they worry more about digital service-related risks such as data security and reliability, their adoption willingness drops. These findings stress the importance of highlighting positive outcomes and minimizing perceived risks to boost digital service adoption in higher education libraries.

The empirical analysis also shows that consumers’ attitudes and trust directly and significantly affect their perceived benefits and risks. Positive attitudes have a positive impact on perceived benefits, meaning positive attitudes towards digital services can enhance readers’ perception of the benefits of these services. Trust is also crucial, as higher levels of trust positively influence perceived benefits. Meanwhile, both attitudes and trust negatively affect perceived risks, indicating that they act as protective factors, alleviating concerns and reducing perceived risks related to the adoption of digital services. These findings stress the importance of cultivating positive attitudes and trust among readers for creating an environment favorable to the successful adoption of digital services in higher education libraries. Figure 2 presents the empirical results on how factors such as readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefit, and perceived risk affect readers’ willingness to adopt digital services. The standardized path coefficients and their p-values are listed beside each path, with *** p < 0.001.

5.3. Moderation Analysis

To test the mediation effects in the model, we used the Bootstrap method proposed by Byrne [45]. We conducted 2000 bootstrap resamples to calculate indirect effects and their confidence intervals. We evaluated both bias-corrected and percentile-based confidence intervals to determine the significance of mediation effects. The indirect effects were considered significant if the 95% confidence intervals did not include zero. Also, we assessed total direct and total effects to distinguish partial and full mediation. The moderation analysis examines how readers’ attitudes subtly affect their adoption of digital services by influencing perceived benefits and risks. The results show that readers’ attitudes play a crucial moderating role in adoption behavior. A positive attitude strengthens the positive influence of perceived benefits on adoption intention, meaning those with a favorable attitude towards digital services are more likely to be influenced by perceived benefits when deciding to adopt. Moreover, a positive attitude weakens the negative impact of perceived risks on adoption intention. This indicates that a positive attitude serves as a buffer, reducing the inhibitory effect of perceived risks on the willingness to adopt digital services. These findings illustrate the complex relationship among readers’ attitudes, perceived benefits, and perceived risks and stress the need to cultivate positive attitudes to promote successful adoption in higher education libraries.

In addition, the moderation analysis examines how readers’ trust affects their adoption of digital services by influencing perceived benefits and risks. Results show that higher trust levels strengthen the positive influence of perceived benefits on adoption intentions. In other words, readers with more trust in digital services are more receptive to the positive aspects of adoption. Conversely, trust also weakens the negative impact of perceived risks on adoption intention, acting as a safeguard. This implies that trust in digital services’ reliability and security reduces the inhibiting effect of perceived risks, making people more likely to adopt them. These findings emphasize the crucial role of trust in shaping readers’ adoption behavior regarding digital services in university libraries.

The mediation analysis showed several important indirect effects (

Table 6. Moderation analysis results.

Pathway	Indirect Effect ($\mathit{\beta }$)	Bias-Corrected 95% CI	Percentile 95% CI
Attitudes → Perceived Benefits → Intention	0.120	[0.080, 0.170]	[0.075, 0.165]
Trust → Perceived Benefits → Intention	0.084	[0.050, 0.120]	[0.048, 0.115]
Attitudes → Perceived Risks → Intention	−0.057	[−0.095, −0.025]	[−0.093, −0.024]
Trust → Perceived Risks → Intention	−0.053	[−0.085, −0.020]	[−0.082, −0.019]

). The path from attitudes to adoption intention via perceived benefits had a significant positive indirect effect ($\beta$ = 0.120), with both bias-corrected and 95% percentile confidence intervals excluding zero. Similarly, trust to intention via perceived benefits ($\beta$ = 0.084), attitudes to intention via perceived risks ($\beta$ = −0.057), and trust to intention via perceived risks ($\beta$ = −0.053) all had significant indirect effects, with confidence intervals not including zero. These results suggest partial mediation effects since the total and direct effects for the paths from attitudes and trust to adoption intention were significant. Thus, perceived benefits and perceived risks partially mediate the relationships between attitudes, trust, and adoption intention.

6. Conclusions

In conclusion, this paper has fully explored the complex relationship between digital transformation in university libraries and readers’ willingness to use digital services. This research fills a gap in the literature by highlighting factors like attitudes, trust, and perceived risks that influence the use of digital services in university libraries, a context often ignored in technology adoption studies. The research background shows the growing importance of digital services in reshaping the library experience and the wider academic environment. Using PLS-SEM, this research aimed to comprehensively understand the factors influencing readers’ intentions to use digital services. The findings offer valuable insights for optimizing digital services and promoting their successful use in higher education [46].

The main finding of this study is that perceived benefits significantly and positively affect readers’ adoption intentions. This is in line with the existing technology adoption literature, which emphasizes the role of perceived benefits in shaping users’ intentions [47]. However, this study extends these findings to university libraries, highlighting specific benefits such as better resource access and increased convenience. By identifying these positive outcomes, this research fully understands the factors influencing readers’ willingness to use digital services in the library. Another important finding is the moderating role of readers’ attitudes in their adoption behavior. This study shows that a positive attitude not only strengthens the positive impact of perceived benefits on adoption intentions but also reduces the impact of perceived risks. This adds to the existing literature by showing the complex relationships between attitudes, benefits, and risks in digital service adoption [48]. These findings show the importance of cultivating positive attitudes to promote successful use in higher education libraries and are different from previous studies by exploring the relationships between attitudes and adoption.

The third important finding is the impact of trust on readers’ adoption behavior. Higher levels of trust not only increase the positive impact of perceived benefits on adoption intentions but also reduce the negative impact of perceived risks. Trust is a protective factor that enhances positive outcomes and reduces risk-related concerns. By comparing these findings with previous research, this study shows the continued importance of trust in shaping readers’ perceptions and decision-making, especially in digital transformation. These findings are relevant as universities move towards digital learning environments, highlighting the need for libraries to consider trust and user attitudes in their digital transformation strategies.

6.1. Theoretical Implications

This study has significant theoretical implications for the existing literature on digital service adoption in higher education libraries. The findings contribute to the theory in technology adoption, library science, and information systems and offer new research insights and directions. First, this study enriches technology adoption theories. Based on models like the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), this study adds factors specific to higher education libraries. By highlighting readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, and perceived risks, it deepens our understanding of digital service adoption in education [49]. These factors create a more comprehensive framework applicable beyond university libraries, enriching existing theories.

Second, it emphasizes integrating human factors into library science theories. Traditionally, library science theories focused on organizations and information management. This study takes a user-centered approach by exploring readers’ attitudes and trust in digital service adoption. Integrating these factors into library science theories enables a more holistic view of the library as a socio-technical system. This shift aligns with the library’s evolving role in the digital age and emphasizes a user-centered approach to library services and strategies [50]. Third, it extends information systems research in education. As digital transformation reshapes higher education, understanding adoption factors is crucial. This study advances this research by exploring relationships between readers’ attitudes, trust, perceived benefits, perceived risks, and adoption intentions in university libraries [51]. These theoretical foundations can inform future research on technology adoption in education and guide scholars in developing models for the evolving higher education context.

6.2. Practical Implications

This study presents practical implications relevant to administrators, librarians, and policymakers in higher education institutions, providing actionable insights for enhancing the successful adoption of digital services in libraries. The first implication emphasizes tailoring strategies to promote perceived benefits. Higher education libraries should conduct targeted communication and training programs highlighting digital services’ specific benefits like better resource access, streamlined information retrieval, and enhanced academic experiences. By stressing these, institutions can improve readers’ perceptions and encourage positive attitudes towards digital services [51]. This indicates the need for comprehensive communication plans, user training, and promotional campaigns that clearly show the positive results of adopting digital services. Based on our findings, we recommend library managers focus on improving the perceived benefits of digital services, such as enhancing user experience and ensuring data security.

The second implication is about cultivating trust through transparent communication and strong security measures. Libraries need to prioritize clear communication regarding digital services’ reliability and security [49]. Implementing robust security measures, protecting user data, and communicating these to readers can ease concerns and build trust. This requires libraries to invest in secure and user-friendly digital platforms, provide transparent privacy policy information, and actively involve users in digital service improvement decision-making. Building trust is crucial for successful adoption, and libraries must take proactive steps to ensure a secure and transparent digital environment [23].

The third implication underlines the importance of user-centered service design and continuous feedback mechanisms. Libraries should actively involve readers in digital service design and improvement, considering their preferences, needs, and concerns. By using continuous feedback mechanisms like user surveys, focus groups, and usability testing, libraries can gain valuable insights and adjust services accordingly. This user-centered approach ensures digital services meet readers’ changing expectations and needs. Libraries should invest in user experience research, use agile development methods, and establish strong feedback loops to create a dynamic and responsive digital service ecosystem [52]. These implications offer a guide for higher education libraries aiming to increase digital service adoption, helping them develop targeted strategies, build trust, and create user-centered digital environments.

6.3. Limitations and Future Work

While this study offers valuable insights into factors affecting readers’ intentions to adopt digital services in university libraries, we must recognize certain limitations for future research directions. First, there is the issue of the contextual generalizability of the findings. While this study provides valuable insights into university libraries, the demographic focus on undergraduate students from one institution may limit the applicability of these findings to other academic contexts, such as larger universities or non-Western cultural settings. It focuses on a specific library demographic, and differences in institutions, cultures, or disciplines may differently affect readers’ attitudes. Future research should examine more diverse institutions, including different cultures, disciplines, and sizes, to enhance external validity. Cross-cultural comparative studies could address this limitation, helping researchers uncover insights aimed at a more comprehensive theoretical framework by examining cultural influences on readers’ perceptions and behaviors.

Second, this study has a limitation regarding the temporal dynamics of technology adoption. Digital services and technology change rapidly, and the data here are from a specific time. Future research should use longitudinal approaches to capture changes in readers’ attitudes, trust, and adoption behavior over time, providing a more dynamic understanding and helping libraries adapt strategies. Longitudinal studies tracking these trends over time could address this limitation, offering insights into the sustainability of relevant factors and a more nuanced understanding of digital service interventions’ long-term impact.

Third, this study’s methodological approach has limitations. Although PLS-SEM has advantages in analyzing complex models, it also has drawbacks. Future research could use a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, such as in-depth interviews or focus groups, to better understand readers’ perspectives. Exploring alternative modeling techniques or complementary approaches would strengthen the findings. Mixed-methods approaches, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative data collection, could address methodological considerations. Comparative analyses of different techniques or approaches would enhance methodological rigor in studies on readers’ intentions to adopt digital services in higher education libraries, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding through triangulation.