Scientometric Review of Informal Learning Spaces in University Libraries: A Bibliometric Approach to Design and Trends

Xiao Cui, Jianfeng Liao and Abraham Chiwon Ahn ()
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Xiao Cui: Department of Architectural Design, Hanyang University ERICA, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea
Jianfeng Liao: Department of Architectural Design, Hanyang University ERICA, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea
Abraham Chiwon Ahn: Department of Architectural Design, Hanyang University ERICA, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 15588, Republic of Korea

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 6, 1-27

Abstract: The evolution of university libraries from traditional knowledge bases to dynamic, multifunctional learning environments has attracted widespread attention in higher education research. This study, as a scientometric review, focuses on the combination of library space design and informal learning space, making up for the fragmented status of existing research and proposing specific design recommendations for university library space design from the perspective of informal learning space. The study used CiteSpace6.2r7 software to analyze 1434 articles from 1973 to 2024 in the Web of Science Core Collection. The analysis identified key research trends, keyword clusters, and thematic connections, confirming the importance of studying university library space design from the perspective of informal learning space. The review also explored how libraries should promote structured academic work and autonomous collaborative learning through space design by proposing design strategies by studying the symbiotic relationship between library space design and informal learning. This study provides a structured framework for the development of future library spaces and provides important reference information for optimizing learning environments to meet the changing needs of students and educators.

Keywords: academic libraries; informal learning spaces; scientometric review; bibliometric analysis; CiteSpace; digital transformation; user-centered design (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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