Purpose
This study aims to explore linked data (LD) initiatives in libraries and information (LI) centres along with motivating factors to start these LD projects and challenges faced by librarians in implementing LD technology.

Design/methodology/approach
To achieve the objectives of the study, a systematic literature review was conducted. The preferred reporting items were used for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. Data were collected from different scholarly databases.

Findings
Findings show that many initiatives were taken in LI centres during the past decade. These LI centres had to face many challenges to implement LD technology. These challenges might include technological issues, scarce financial resources, lack of skilled human resources, low level of awareness among community/librarians, proprietary licence, non-availability of standards and best practices. However, technological challenges were more complex. Systematic review shows that most of the LD initiatives and activities in LI centres take place in developed countries. Overall, the results reveal that most of the libraries are in the infancy stage of LD application because of the ambivalent nature of technology.

Originality/value
This study may be beneficial to devise guidelines to transform the aforementioned different challenges into opportunities. It is also important to provide a holistic picture about the challenges and opportunities of LD through a systematic review of initiatives already taken by LI centres.