Fourth Fifth International Conference on Science and Technology Metrics (STMet 2024)
Work Life Balance among Library Staff: A PRISMA-based systematic review of Web of Science
Annu Kumari, Neelam Thapa Ph.D. Research Scholar Department of Library and Information Science Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar, India
Abstract: Work-life balance is the integration of a person’s personal and professional obligations. It entails efficiently managing time
and energy to prevent job obligations from overshadowing personal concerns, boost overall quality of life and job satisfaction,
and promote well-being while lowering stress. Library staff, like staff in any other service sector organisation, work under
pressure to provide quality services and fulfil user demands, which may lead to burnout, stress and exhaustion. To ensure
that LIS professionals are prepared, supported, and revitalised to continue playing a crucial role in their organisation, the
critical relevance of work-life balance must be acknowledged. This study, through bibliometric analysis and systematic
review, aims to identify research trends, key factors, and challenges influencing work-life balance among library professionals.
A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted to filter the literature on the work-life balance of library
staff published between 2008 and 2025 in Web of Science. Of the 115 items, 46 were selected for the study. Analysis shows
an increase in the number of publications on work-life balance from 2020, peaking at 8 (17.39%) in 2021, with the Journal
of Academic Librarianship publishing the most articles (16, 34.78%) on the topic. The most significant factors influencing the
work-life balance of library staff include workload, workplace inflexibility, the number of family members, and personal
responsibilities. The most frequently reported challenges include a stressful work environment and a heavy workload,
followed by issues such as difficulty concentrating and declining health. It is suggested that offering a flexible work schedule,
skill development programs, implementing shift duties during emergencies, cancelling overtime, and establishing work-life
balance policies could positively impact the work-life balance of library staff.
Keywords: Work-Life Balance, Flexible Working, Work Life Conflict, Library, Library Staff Work Life Balance among Library Staff: A PRISMA-based systematic review of Web of Science
