1. Use of Artificial Intelligence Technologies in Rendering Library Services: Empirical Evidence from University Libraries in Africa
- Author
-
Abba, Tukur
- Subjects
BZ. None of these, but in this section. ,LQ. Library automation systems. ,LZ. None of these, but in this section. - Abstract
The main objective of this paper is to investigate the level of adoption of Artificial Intelligence to support library services delivery in university libraries in Africa. Qualitative research method was adopted to collect data using online. A preliminary survey of 102 university libraries in English speaking countries in Africa was conducted to identify the university libraries that have adopted Artificial Intelligence in their libraries. Content analysis was used to analyze the responses. The study found that the only few university libraries in Africa have adopted AI technologies such as Chatbot, ChatGPT, LibKey from ThirdIron, robots, RFID technology and Grammarly. These AI technologies are used to render different library services like answering of directional and ready reference questions posed by library users, serving as a knowledge base for cataloguing information of library materials, self-check-out machine for books, used as a marketing tool for the library, tool for statistics evaluation and recommendations, assisting in the charging and discharging of library materials, and so on. Lack of fund to acquire the AI tools, training of librarians, and lack of full knowledge of AI were the most mentioned challenges associated with the adoption of AI in libraries. The study concludes that formulation of policy to guide the adoption of new technologies such as AI, and training and re-training for librarians through workshops is required to equip librarians with the skills needed to effectively use the AI technologies.
- Published
- 2023