An Examination of Awareness, Utilisation, and Challenges with Artificial Intelligence in University Library Services Provision among Librarians In Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the awareness, utilisation, and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in university library services among reference librarians in Kwara State University libraries. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data was collected from 15 reference librarians using a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal that librarians are aware of AI technologies, with 33.3% being very aware and 40.0% aware. However, the utilisation of AI technologies is still in its infancy, with chatbots being the most utilised AI technology (53.3%). The major challenges hindering AI adoption are poor internet connectivity (mean = 4.20), lack of expertise (mean = 4.13), and inadequate infrastructure (mean = 3.93). The study concludes that while there is a good level of awareness of AI among reference librarians, the utilisation of AI technologies is still limited, and several challenges need to be addressed to ensure successful AI adoption in university libraries. Recommendations include developing AI skills, providing necessary infrastructure and funding, and developing policies that support AI adoption.