Use of AI Chatbots among Librarians: Implications for Future Library Services
Lawrence, Arumuru
International Journal of Information Studies, Vol. 17, No. 3, 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6025/ijis/2025/17/3/123-136
Link: https://www.dline.info/ijis/fulltext/v17n3/ijisv17n3_3.pdf
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine the use of AI chatbots among librarians in Nigerian university
libraries and assess their potential impact on future library services. The study was conducted to investigate
the current usage levels of AI chatbots, their potential for enhancing service delivery in the future, and the
challenges associated with their implementation. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model, an ex post
facto research design was employed. Data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to a purposive
sample of 278 librarians (28%) from a population of 989 across six states in Nigeriaâ€™s geopolitical zones. Of the
distributed questionnaires, 200 responses (72%) were completed and analyzed using descriptive statistics,
including frequency, percentage, and mean. The criterion mean of 2.50 was established for interpreting the
data, with findings indicating a low current usage level of AI chatbots among librarians (Aggregate x = 1.92,
Crit. x = 2.50).The study revealed promising prospects for AI chatbots in Nigerian university libraries, including
their potential to significantly automate routine tasks (91%), improve accessibility to library resources (81%),
enhance outreach programs (76%), provide multilingual support (71%), offer personalized user support (66%),
and support research activities (65%). However, several challenges were identified, such as difficulties in
customizing AI chatbots for specific library needs (96%), issues with user acceptance and trust (94%), limitations
in handling specific topics (86%), the need for regular software updates (85%), and concerns regarding privacy
and security (80%). The study recommends that university administrators and library leaders invest in
modern technological infrastructure and provide comprehensive training for librarians to ensure effective
implementation and management of AI systems. Addressing these challenges and capitalizing on the potential
of AI chatbots could transform future library services in Nigerian universities.