Augmented stacks and virtual reference desks

Abstract

This article examines the concurrent evolution of two transformative technological domains within contemporary librarianship: augmented reality applications for physical collections and advanced virtual reference services. Through analysis of recent implementations, including the National Library Board of Singapore’s Augmented Reading initiative and collaborative reference networks such as British Columbia’s AskAway service, this article argues that these technologies represent not merely incremental improvements but fundamental shifts in how libraries mediate the relationship between users and information. The article explores the technical frameworks enabling these innovations, the organizational structures supporting their implementation, and the challenges libraries face in an environment increasingly shaped by generative artificial intelligence. It concludes that the integration of immersive technologies with responsive, human-centered virtual reference creates a complementary ecosystem that extends the library’s mission beyond physical and institutional boundaries while preserving its core commitment to equitable access and information literacy.