Systematic Review of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) in Librarians: Digital Age Occupational Health Implications

This study explores the prevalence, health impacts, and management strategies of computer vision syndrome (CVS) among librarians a profession that involves extensive use of digital devices. Although CVS has been widely studied in other occupational sectors, its occurrence within library settings remains underexplored. This review addresses the central research question: How prevalent is CVS among librarians, what are its health and occupational impacts, and which interventions are most effective in mitigating its effects? Drawing from peer-reviewed literature published between 2010 and 2024 across diverse geographic contexts, the review reveals that CVS affects approximately 60–78% of librarians. Common symptoms include eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and neck pain often aggravated by prolonged screen exposure, inadequate lighting, and poor ergonomic conditions. The findings demonstrate that CVS not only poses significant physical and mental health risks but also adversely affects job performance, contributing to fatigue and occupational stress. In terms of management, the review identifies the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions such as adjustable desks, anti-glare screens, and enhanced lighting, as well as behavioral strategies like regular screen breaks and adherence to the 20–20–20 rule. When implemented collectively, these measures were found to reduce symptom severity by up to 60%, demonstrating the value of integrated intervention approaches. This review contributes original insights to an underrepresented area of occupational health literature. It calls for the development of institutional policies and targeted support to safeguard librarians’ well-being in the digital work environment.