Implementation of Virtual Internship in Library and Information Science: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Abstract This scoping review explored the concept of virtual/online internships in Library and Information Science (LIS) education, focusing on their rationale, advantages, and challenges. Following the Arksey and O’Malley framework, sixteen relevant articles were included after screening 261 initial records identified through database searches ( n = 181) and additional sources such as gray literature and reference lists ( n = 80). The findings revealed key themes and sub-themes related to the motivations for adopting virtual internships, their potential benefits for students and institutions, and the barriers to effective implementation. The results suggested that virtual internships addressed several limitations of traditional in-person models by offering greater accessibility and flexibility. However, they were not universally applicable and were best considered as context-dependent alternatives rather than outright replacements. This review highlighted the transformative potential of virtual internships in LIS education while underscoring the importance of tailored implementation strategies.