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Journal of Advancements in Library Sciences Original Research

From Documentation to Digital Stewardship: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Technological Transformation in Indigenous Knowledge Management

  1. Sarfraz Ahmed Department of Library and Information Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh
  2. Sudharma Haridasan Department of Library and Information Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh

Abstract

This bibliometric study systematically maps the technological evolution of Indigenous Knowledge Management (IKM) over a 30-year period (1995–2025). It aims to identify the conceptual shifts and emerging technologies defining the transition from passive digital documentation to active algorithmic stewardship. The study utilises a scientometric approach to analyse a corpus of 835 unique documents retrieved from the Scopus database. Scientific-mapping techniques, including thematic evolution and keyword co-occurrence analysis, were performed using the Bibliometrix (R package) and VOSviewer to visualise the field's intellectual structure.The research identifies a 19.51% annual growth rate, peaking in 2025, with a focus on Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies. The evolution consists of three waves: early GIS-based spatial capture, a mid-period focus on digital libraries, and a contemporary convergence of AI and Indigenous Data Sovereignty (IDS). While "Data Governance" is a mature motor theme, "Blockchain" and "AI Ethics" represent current innovation frontiers. A persistent "Digital Divide" remains, with leadership concentrated in CANZUS nations and South Africa.This research provides a pioneering longitudinal map of IKM's technological trajectory. It offers empirical evidence for a strategic paradigm shift toward "Algorithmic Sovereignty", an indigenous-led approach to advanced computation that ensures ethical and relational preservation of digital heritage.

Keywords

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