The use of human-computer interaction in libraries: a systematic literature review Amjid Khan and Abid Hussain Department of Library and Information Sciences, Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Pakistan, and Muhammad Zareef Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Islamabad, Pakistan Abstract Purpose – This study aims to analyze the status and application/use of human–computer interaction (HCI) in libraries by conducting a systematic literature review (SLR). Design/methodology/approach – A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analysis (PRISMA) approach was used to search Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases. The search criteria included research studies published in English language between 2010 and 2021, which were 4,167 citations. Out of 4,167 citations, a total of 50 studies were selected for the final analysis. Findings – The results showed a positive attitude of librarians toward HCI applications in libraries worldwide. The results depict that one-third (30%) of the studies were conducted in the USA, followed by four (8%) studies in China. Out of 50 studies, a portion of 15 (30%) studies were based on digital libraries, followed by seven (14%) studies on academic libraries and five (10%) studies on libraries and their websites. HCI was used for searching and retrieving information, users’ interaction, authentication, online help/support, feedback, library web access, web OPAC, virtual access to resources, indigenous repository and virtual services. The most productive year was 2015, and journal of The Electronic Library had more articles on HCI than other journals. Practical implications – The findings of this study could assist policymakers and library authorities in reconciling the HCI application in libraries for providing effective and efficient access and services to end-users. Originality/value – This study is unique as no comprehensive study has been conducted on the use of HCI in librarianship using the SLR method. Keywords Human–computer interaction, HCI-Libraries, Librarianship-HCIs, Systematic literature review, PRISMA Paper type Literature review Introduction Human–computer interaction (HCI) is a multidisciplinary subject that focuses on the design of computer technology, particularly the interaction between humans (users) and computers (machines). HCI began with computers and has now grown to encompass all aspects of information technology and information architecture design. It is mostly used to assist humans by recognizing their needs and desires (Dhiran, 2021). The goals of HCI are to create systems that are useful and safe, as well as functional to meet the desired needs of end-users. HCI is a body of knowledge that has emerged in several fields and with a significant increase over time in how people interact with computer applications (Martínez-Toro et al., 2019). Consequently, a vast range of computer programs and software have been created to improve the functioning of various systems and assist users in making decisions (Turk, 2014). Use of human– computer interaction Received 7 August 2022 Revised 5 March 2023 Accepted 15 May 2023 Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication © Emerald Publishing Limited 2514-9342 DOI 10.1108/GKMC-07-2022-0167 The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at: https://www.emerald.com/insight/2514-9342.htm