User Experience in Metaverse Libraries: Lessons from Four Cases

초록

This study evaluates the usability of four metaverse libraries—Chilgok Public Library, Daegu Integrated Public Library, Community Virtual Library, and Caledon Library—using a multi-method approach. A task-based evaluation based on Nielsen's usability criteria was combined with the System Usability Scale (SUS), AttrakDiff, and Photovoice to capture users' cognitive, behavioral, and emotional experiences. Results show that unfamiliarity with virtual environments posed initial challenges, particularly in Second Life-based libraries. However, users' efficiency improved with repeated tasks, and participants without prior metaverse experience reported higher emotional satisfaction. Photovoice data revealed immersive visuals alongside usability issues such as navigation difficulties and unclear interactions. The study highlights the need for platform-specific design improvements and usability training. It contributes to metaverse library research by offering comprehensive evaluation methods and suggesting directions for designing more user-centered metaverse library experiences. 88th Annual Meeting of the Association for Information Science & Technology | Nov. 14 – 18, 2025 | Washington, DC, USA.

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