Enhancing Diversity and Inclusivity in AI-Driven Library Services in Nigeria

Abstract

Artificial intelligence is an innovation of the 21st century technology with the ability to promote service delivery and improve decision making. AI innovation within various sector drives a paradigm shift in activities. This paper examines influence of AI-powered library services in promoting diversity and inclusive education in Nigeria. The study gives an overview of AI and library service delivery, highlights the operations of AI, it explains application areas of AI components in library and information service delivery, as well as some strategies for appropriating AI for effective service delivery. The study adopts expository research approach, through literature search to gain meaningful insights to the topic hence, extant literature on the subject were reviewed to establish the findings of this study. It was concluded that artificial intelligence has contributed to a thriving library services in the 21st century. Also, by leveraging on innovativeness and creativity features of AI component, diversity and inclusivity can be promoted. Practical recommendations proffered in this study include provision of required infrastructures, promoting patrons digital literacy, formulation of policies that strengthens the adoption of AI, development and implementation of cross-sectoral AI programmes that can be used by library professionals, students, policy makers and technology firms in supporting the implementation of AI-based library and information services in Nigeria and other developing countries.