Navigating the AI Era: Opportunities and Challenges for Library Services in Developing Countries

Abstract

This paper explored the opportunities and challenges of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into library and information services, with a focus on developing countries, particularly African academic libraries. It highlights AI’s potential to enhance library practices while addressing adoption barriers, proposing strategies to ensure libraries remain relevant in the digital era. The study employs a comprehensive literature review, synthesizing scholarly works (primarily 2020–2024) on AI applications in libraries. The study utilized peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and reports sourced through structured searches in Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using relevant keywords. Selected publications, focused on developing-country contexts, were screened and analyzed to identify key opportunities, challenges, and recommendations. AI offers opportunities for automation, personalised services, enhanced information retrieval and stakeholder partnerships to improve digital infrastructure and skills. Challenges in developing countries include low digital literacy, inadequate infrastructure, unreliable power, resistance to change, funding constraints and limited AI policies. Proposed strategies include fostering AI literacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, alternative energy solutions (e.g., solar) and robust policy formulation. The integration of AI into library services in developing countries, particularly Africa, presents a pivotal opportunity to redefine librarianship in the digital age. Despite challenges, proactive adoption of AI through skill development, policy frameworks and partnerships can position libraries as dynamic knowledge hubs, ensuring their relevance and impact in the AI era.