Libraries as Catalyst to Digital Detox: Enhancing Mental, Physical and Educational Outcome

LIBRARY HERALD

Year : 2026, Volume : 64, Issue :1

First page :(113)Last page :(123)

Print ISSN : 0024-2292. Online ISSN : 0976-2469.

Article DOI : 10.5958/0976-2469.2026.00011.9

Libraries as Catalyst to Digital Detox: Enhancing Mental, Physical and Educational Outcome

Shilpa s. Uplaonkar1, Keshava2, Shankar B. Chavan3

1 Librarian, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, India

2 Senior Professor, Department of Library and Information Science, Tumkur University, Tumkur, India

3 Deputy Librarian, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, India

Abstract

This article explores the proliferation role of academic libraries as one of the most indispensable neighborhood nucleuses accelerating a “digital detox” intentional era of parting away from digital devices to encourage real-world connections and individualistic renaissance. Through conceptual methodology, the article depicts the way the unique libraries’ contributions, such as physical spaces, print collections, programming, and community engagement that provide support to natural digital disconnection. It reviews the existing literature on the digital well-being and the evolving operations of libraries, marking objectives to examine ongoing library initiatives and to emerge innovative approaches. In a progressively digitally connected world, technological anarchy has turned out to become a prevalent encounter, authoritarian to reduced well-being, shortened attention period, and communal detachment. The conclusions of the study reveal that libraries are ideally established towards becoming a befitting development as a prominent supporter for digital wellbeing, offering a realistic mechanism and environs for users to invigorate with themselves, others, and the tangible world.

Keywords

Digital Detox; Digital Well-being; Libraries; Public Libraries; Academic Libraries; Community Engagement; Information overload; Mindfulness; Physical Space; Print Collections