Heigh-ho, heigh-ho, to the rural libraries we go! - a systematic literature review

As a learning center, rural library initiatives aim to provide rural communities with access to a wealth of reliable and readily available information. Changes in user behavior correspond with the changes in the way instructional programs are delivered to meet the rural library users' needs. Guided by the RAMESES review method, a systematic review identified 30 related studies throughout Scopus and Web of Science databases. Seven main themes emerged: roles, services, use, sources, activities, challenges, and impacts. The seven themes produced a total of 30 sub-themes. In-depth qualitative studies of rural library services, and needs analyses of rural communities are recommended.