1Sachin Uday Wagh and 2Dr.
Sharmila V. Gadge
1VVM’s S.G.Patil College Arts,
Science and Commerce College,
Sakri Tal- Sakri Dist Dhule M.S.
2Librarian,YCSP Mandal’s Dadasaheb Digambar Patil Arts,
Commerce and Science College,
Erandol, Jalgaon
Email- sachinwagh2010@gmail.com, sharmilagadge@gmail.com
Abstract:
The Present Study aims to explore
the use of AI Tools in information
literacy programmes run by librarians of
arts, commerce and science colleges in the districts of Dhule and Nan durbar
which are affiliated to K.B.C.North Maharashtra University Jalgaon. The
questionnaire survey of the study was used to collect data for study. A
Structured questionnaire was constructed and distributed to 56 librarians
provide them with the information needed to access their knowledge of
artificial intelligence tools and its use in information literacy programme.
Out of 46 (82.14%) questionnaire was received for data analysis. Grammarly,
ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and the least expensive plagiarism detection software
for academic purposes are just a few of the reference services, information
literacy instruction, and research support services that are examined in this
study.There are numerous obstacles to using AI-integrated tools to teach
information literacy by academic librarians, including a lack of training,
ethical concerns with AI, and the rapid advancement of new AI technologies.
According to the study, in order for libraries to offer information literacy
programs, a new framework incorporating AI tools must be created.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Information Literacy; Academic
Libraries; AI Tools; Librarians; Higher Education
1.
Introduction
The implementation of AI tools into
information literacy programs in the academic libraries of KBC North
Maharashtra University Jalgaon - specifically in the districts of Dhule and
Nandurbar -will make librarians proactive facilitators of NEP 2020. By providing
AI-supported resources, librarians will support the creation of personalized
and flexible learning experiences that will allow students to learn how to
obtain, evaluate, and ethically use information. These AI technologies will
help librarians become important contributors to the advancement of lifelong
learning, digital literacy, and critical thinking, ultimately aiding in NEP's
vision of providing a holistic educational experience for students.
Furthermore, the presence of Generative AI has transformed the landscape of
information retrieval; therefore, academic libraries must employ the latest
technologies to enhance their foundational literacy programs.
2. Objectives 0f the Study
The main objectives of the study
are:
- To examine the level of
awareness of AI tools among academic librarians in Dhule and Nandurbar
Districts
- To identify the extent of usage
of AI tools in information literacy programmes.
- To analyze the types of AI
tools used by librarians in College libraries.
- To study the purposes for which
AI tools are used in information literacy activities.
- To assess librarians’
perceptions regarding the effectiveness of AI tools.
- To identify the challenges
faced by librarians in the use of AI tools.
3. Literature Review
Martin
Gameli Akakpo (2023) discusses how academic libraries should incorporate
generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, which create content like text
or images, into information literacy training. This training helps students
find, evaluate, and ethically use information to navigate the vast number of
digital sources. Jalal Rezaee Noor (2025) aimed to explain the role of AI in
improving information literacy. study highlighted several key factors, including
the availability of reliable data, strong technological infrastructure, the
capability of AI systems, and users’ digital literacy levels. Lo (2022)
surveyed academic library staff in the United States and discovered that while
many are aware of AI and its benefits, actual hands-on experience and technical
knowledge are still limited. Most staff members expressed interest in learning
about AI tools but raised concerns about ethical issues, data privacy, and how
ready their institutions are for these changes. Similarly, Tang and Zhang
(2023) reviewed many global case studies found the use of AI in libraries
varies greatly by region and institution. This variation is influenced by
budget constraints, technical infrastructure, and administrative support. Ali
Kavak (2025) used survey model to examine the
views, expectations and concerns of academic library users in Türkiye towards
AI-enabled services. Study found though current library
services Turkey region was satisfied but AI enabled library services add more
interesting and advanced.
4. Research Methodology
This study adopts a Quantitative
method research approach to explore the implementation and impact of AI tools
in college libraries. Data collection involves the distribution of structured
questionnaires to librarians. For the purpose of the study following research
methodology is adopted.
|
Sr.No. |
Component |
Details |
|
1. |
Population of Study |
All academic librarians working in Arts, Commerce, and
Science faculties of colleges in Dhule and Nandurbar districts |
|
2. |
Sampling Design |
|
|
|
Sample Unit |
Individual librarian |
|
|
Sampling Frame |
Arts, Commerce, and Science college libraries in Dhule and
Nandurbar districts |
|
|
Size of Sample |
56 librarians from participating colleges |
|
|
Sampling Method |
Convenience sampling (non-probability sampling) |
|
|
Inclusion Criteria |
• Librarian must be currently employed in a college
library in Dhule or Nandurbar districts• College must offer programs in Arts,
Commerce, or Science• Librarian must be involved in information literacy
programs or library services |
|
3. |
Period of Study |
2025–2026 (current academic year during data collection) |
|
4. |
Data Collection |
|
|
|
Type of Data |
Primary |
|
|
Source of Data |
Structured questionnaire administered to librarians |
|
5. |
Variables of the Study |
|
|
|
|
1. Awareness of AI Tools Proxy: Yes/No responses 2. Usage of AI Tools Proxy: Frequency of AI tool usage (Daily, Weekly,
Occasionally, Rarely) 3. Type of AI Tools Used Proxy: Number of tools used (ChatGPT, Grammarly, Drillbit,
Google Bard) 4. Purpose of Using AI Tools Proxy: Teaching, Research Support, Reference, Content
Creation, Plagiarism Detection 5. Challenges in Using AI Tools Proxy: Lack of Training, Ethical Concerns, Technical
Issues, Lack of Institutional Support |
|
6. |
Data Analysis Methods |
Descriptive Statistics: Frequency counts, percentages,
tables, and charts Analytic/Inferential Statistics: Cross-tabulation of awareness and
usage; analysis of perception of effectiveness vs. frequency and purpose of
use; identification of patterns in challenges |
4. Results
4.1 Distribution of Respondents by Disciplines
This section
of the report has examined the breakdown of the sample by examining how many of
the respondents were Librarians in three academic areas Arts, Commerce and
Science. It is necessary to examine how well represented each of the academic
disciplines within the sample was so that we can determine whether our results
are well balanced and whether we had an adequate amount of both qualified and
unqualified Librarians within each of the academic disciplines giving us a
greater diversity of perspectives in our dataset and improving the reliability
of the data collected.
Chart 1: Pie Chart of Discipline-wise Distribution
The table shows that the highest number of respondents within the
sample were Librarians in the field of science (43.48%), were Librarians in the
field of arts(34.78%) and the disciplines of commerce (21.74%). By having an
evenly represented sample across the three major academic fields, we are able
to account for a fair distribution of responses, with only a small amount of
variation from the other academic disciplines. In doing so, we are able to
eliminate any disciplinary biases within the data. Therefore, the results of
this study can be generalized to represent Librarians from all disciplines.
4.2 Awareness of AI
Tools among Librarians
Awareness of emerging technologies
such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a prerequisite for their effective
adoption and use in library services. This section examines the level of
awareness of AI tools among librarians, which helps in understanding their
readiness to integrate AI-based applications into library operations and
services.
Chart 2:Bar Chart of Awareness of AI
Tools
Based on the data collected from
this study, it appears that nearly all (86.96%) of librarians surveyed
recognize that they utilize AI based upon their response to the question.
Therefore, there appears to be a general upsurge in the amount of knowledge about
AI, or lack thereof, amongst library scientific professionals today. The
findings indicate that the increase in the overall level of library
professional knowledge regarding AI has stemmed from an increasing amount of
interest, training, and exposure related to the application of AI technology.
However, the relatively lower percentage of librarians not knowing about AI
indicates the necessity for library institutions, organizations, and
universities to adopt more structured development programs to reach an
increased percentage of librarians who do not possess the knowledge needed to
become digitally competent.
4.3 Use of AI Tools in
Information Literacy Programmes
The introduction of AI Tools in
Information Literacy Programmes Information literacy programmes help users
become proficient at locating, evaluating, and using information. The
incorporation of AI tools into information literacy programmes can enhance the
effectiveness of the programme’s instructional efforts as well as learner
engagement with the programme material. This section discusses how frequently
librarians incorporate AI tools into their information literacy programme.
Chart 3: Column Chart of AI Tool Usage
More than 4/5ths of Librarians
surveyed (86.96%) currently use AI tools in their Information Literacy programs
as opposed to 21.74% of surveyed librarians' that have not yet incorporated
these tools into their programmes.
The results of this study provide
evidence of the high rate of active adoption by Librarians of AI tools for the
development and delivery of Information Literacy programmes. There is an
indication that Librarians are increasingly aware of the benefits AI tools can
provide through the enhancement of personalized instructions, automated content
delivery, and interactive learning experiences. Additionally, there are
possible issues noted by those Librarians who responded that they have not yet
incorporated AI tools into their Information Literacy programmes and it is
necessary to understand what these barriers may be. It is evident that these
identified barriers may limit the potential for greater incorporation of AI
tools into Information Literacy programmes if they are not addressed through
capacity-building programs and supportive institutional policies.
4.4 AI Tools Used by Librarians
The AI tools that librarians choose to use
illustrate the practical implementation of AI within their everyday workflows.
By compiling a list of commonly utilised librarian AI tools, researchers gain
insight into current librarian trends, preferences, and how librarians have
used and incorporated AI into their work. Tables present the major types of AI
tools used by librarians to complete various aspects of their professional
work.
Chart Bar 04 Chart of AI Tools Used
The above table and figure shows that ChatGPT is the most
popular AI tool used by librarians and the second most popular is Grammarly.
Moderate numbers of respondents reported using Google Bard/Gemini and
Perplexity, while a relatively smaller number of librarians reported using
Elicit/Scite or Originality AI tools. Implications: The majority of ChatGPTs
demonstrate the versatility of the tool, as it has helped librarians with a
number of library-related activities such as creating content, assisting patrons
with reference inquiries, and helping with various aspects of providing
information support. The high number of users of Grammarly indicates that
librarians place a high priority on improving the quality of their writing and
communication. The moderate numbers of users of Google Bard/Gemini and
Perplexity may reflect an increased interest in using AI-driven search and
information retrieval systems. The low numbers of Elicit/Scite or Originality
AI tool users may be attributable to a lack of knowledge of these tools, the
tools serving a specific function, or limited access to those particular AI
tools. Overall, the results of this study indicate the increasing adoption of a
diverse selection of AI tools in library services.
4.5 Purpose of Using AI Tools by
Librarians
By
understanding how librarians use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, one can
grasp the role that these tools play in library and information services.
Librarians utilize these tools for several professional activities, including
instructional support and research assistance. In this section, we will look at
the primary purpose of library and information professionals' use of AI tools.
Chart 5: Column Chart of Purpose of AI Tools
In the above data , the highest
reported use of AI tools is for teaching information literacy, with research
assistance following closely behind. Content creation and reference services
were also noted among respondents and contributed significantly; however, the
lower reported number for Plagiarism Detection may be due in part to the fact
that most libraries have an established software solution already or that
AI-based Plagiarism Detection tools have yet to be fully integrated into
libraries. Librarians have primarily used AI tools to support instructional and
academic activities. Given that a majority of responses indicated a high level
of usage in teaching information literacy (i.e., to improve the user's ability
to find and use information), this suggests that AI helps librarians increase
user interaction and improve their overall success in the academic environment.
Due to the increase in reliance on AI for literature discovery and the analysis
of data, as well as improving academic support, an increasing number of respondents
indicate the use of AI tools in their research support role. Thus, a large
percentage of respondents who indicated that they utilize AI tools for creating
and maintaining content, and providing reference services illustrated that AI
also enhances efficiency and improves the quality of services. The small
percentage of library professionals who indicated the use of AI tools for
Plagiarism Detection may also be explained by the availability of institutional
software solutions, or the relatively low level of implementation of AI tools
specifically designed for detecting plagiarism. The results would therefore
reflect the diverse applications of AI tools in a variety of ways within
library and information services.
4.6 Frequency of AI Tool
Usage by Librarians
Libraries have seen the introduction of
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies into their work environment. The
regular use of AI tools shows that Librarians accept and depend on them to
perform routine activities. Conversely, infrequent usage signifies that AI
tools were used only occasionally and/or that Librarians experience constraints
associated with their use. This chapter will examine how frequently Librarians
and other Library staff use AI tools in their daily routines.Based on the
survey results presented in Table 1, a significant proportion of respondents
reported using AI tools on a weekly basis (32.14%). Occasional users and daily
users accounted for the next largest group of respondents (30.43%) The smallest
group of respondents reported using AI tools occasionally (14.29%).
Chart 6: Pie Chart of Frequency of AIUse
A majority of Librarians use AI
tools on a Daily or Weekly basis; therefore, they have a Moderate to High level
of Engagement with AI Technologies in Library Services. However, the majority
of respondents who reported using AI tools on an occasional basis use them as
support or for specific tasks rather than embedding them in their Daily
Workflows. In addition to the Majority (moderate-high) Engagement levels of AI
tool Usage by Librarians, a relatively smaller number of respondents reported
using AI tools on a Limited basis due to Barriers to Entry such as Lack of
Training, Limited Access to Tools and/or Institutional Restrictions. The
growing acceptance of AI Tools reflects the trend; however, there remains an
Opportunity to increase the Integration of AI Tools into Library Services
through the development of Skills and the availability of Infrastructure to
Support AI Technology.
4.7 Perception of
Effectiveness of AI Tools
The use of AI tools in library
services will be determined by how effective librarians perceive these
technologies. This section discusses the views held by librarians concerning
the effectiveness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a service delivery mechanism.
As shown in the table provided, 75 percent of respondents either strongly
agreed with or agreed to have at least some level of trust in the effectiveness
of AI tools used in biblioteca service delivery. A small number remain neutral
regarding AI's effectiveness, and a small fraction disagreed with their
effectiveness. As shown in the table provided, 75 percent of respondents either
strongly agreed with or agreed to have at least some level of trust in the
effectiveness of AI tools used in biblioteca service delivery. A small number
remain neutral regarding AI's effectiveness, and a small fraction disagreed
with their effectiveness.
Chart 7: Bar Chart of Perception of
Effectiveness
Overall, the data
indicates that librarians are confident in the ability of AI technologies to
improve service delivery and engage users more effectively. This confidence has
likely been obtained from improved operational efficiencies resulting from implementing
AI tools within their libraries. Of course, some librarians may be undecided or
simply have not yet had sufficient opportunity to test or utilize AI products.
The low number of respondents reporting hesitancy towards using AI illustrates
a good climate for the further adoption and use of these technologies in
library and information services
4.8 Challenges in Using
AI Tools
Librarians are increasingly
utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools within their libraries and
providing library-related information services. However, many librarians are
still experiencing a range of barriers that prevent meaningful and successful
implementation of AI tools. Understanding these barriers will provide a clearer
picture of the difficulties associated with AI’s adoption and ultimately create
the foundation for developing approaches to mitigate the obstacles. The
overview section of the report will examine the barriers many librarians face
when utilizing AI tools.
The most reported challenge in this
study was the occurrence of staff members having not received adequate training
in AI applications. The second most frequently reported barrier was ethical
issues. The next two barriers were a limited amount of technical difficulty and
a limited availability of support from the library’s administration.
Chart 8: Column Chart of Challenges
The results of the study point
toward inadequate training being the most significant barrier to the effective
utilization of AI tools among librarians, and demonstrate an immediate need for
structured training and skill development programs. Additionally, ethical
concerns, such as data privacy, bias, and responsible AI application usage,
indicate that librarians are aware of the larger issues involving AI. Technical
difficulties associated with the implementation of AI tools (e.g., interfacing
with existing systems, loss of business/data continuity due to technical
issues) further impede AI tools’ successful use and integration into libraries.
Furthermore, the lack of institutional support indicates that stronger
organizational policies, funding streams, and a commitment to leading and
implementing AI tools need to be created. Supporting librarians by developing
capacity through additional training, guidelines, and institutional support
will enable librarians to take full advantage of the potential of AI tools in
providing library services.
5. Major Findings of the Study
1. Balanced Representation of
Disciplines
The representation of respondents
from the Arts, Commerce, and Science disciplines are well balanced and
sufficiently scattered throughout the Arts, Commerce, and Science disciplines
in order to minimise any disciplinary bias. This means that the study had an
appropriate distribution of representative respondents in respect to both the
three major disciplines of Arts, Commerce, and Science, on a very even basis.
2. Awareness of AI Tools
There is an exceptionally high level
of awareness among librarians regarding artificial intelligence tools. This
indicates a broad awareness and acceptance of artificial intelligence
technologies as they relate to library and information services.
3. Use of AI to Aid Information
Literacy
Most librarians report using
AI-based tools to assist in their information literacy program and activities.
This use of AI-based tools shows that librarians are actively integrating AI
technologies as part of their instructional or user education programme.
4. Variety of AI Tools in Use
Librarians are currently making use
of a large number of various types of artificial intelligence tools. ChatGPT
appears to be the most frequently used AI tool in libraries, followed closely
by Grammarly. Other examples of artificial intelligence tools currently in use
are Google Bard/Gemini, Perplexity, Elicit/Scite, and Originality AI tools. All
of these examples demonstrate an increased level of diversity in AI tool
adoption.
5.There are Many Uses of AI Tools
Library and information literacy
instruction and support for students' research-related activities are the main
purposes for using AI tools within the library community; this is in addition
to using AI tools for creating original content, providing reference services
to patrons, and aiding in plagiarism detection. All of these examples highlight
the diversity of use for AI within the library setting.
6. Most Librarians Use AI Tools on a
Regular basis
AI tools are used on a daily or
weekly basis by the large majority of librarians; thus, this indicates a
moderate to high level of use by these librarians. There is also a small
percentage of librarians who reported that they do not frequently use AI tools
at all and that they only use AI tools occasionally or very rarely. Therefore,
the data show differences within the library community regarding the level of
integration of AI tools into librarians' work.
7. The Majority Perception that AI
Tools are Effective
It has been reported that most
survey response participants either strongly agree or agree that AI tools are
effective at improving the quality of library services; as a whole, this
indicates a generally positive view and a developing confidence in AI-based
application tools within the library community.
8. Training Is the Largest Barrier
for Librarians
Overwhelmingly, survey participants
cited a lack of training on how to effectively implement AI tools in their
libraries, as the number one obstacle facing them when implementing AI
technologies. Following training, ethical and technical issues were noted as
well as institutional constraints, that prevent libraries from using AI
technologies successfully.
10. Capacity Building and Policy
Development are Required
The findings indicate a relatively
positive perception of the awareness, use, and effectiveness of AI tools;
however, there is an urgent need for the development of systematic training
programmes, the formulation of ethical codes of practice, and an increase in
institutional support to enhance the sustainability and success of AI use in
libraries.
6. Conclusion
The findings of this research
indicate that Librarians increasingly recognize and are utilizing Artificial
Intelligence (AI) tools within their Library & Information Services. The
majority of respondents reported using AI tools as part of an Information
Literacy program, Research Support, Content creation, and Reference Services,
illustrating that AI is being recognized as being valuable to the profession's
day-to-day activities.
ChatGPT and Grammarly were reported
as the most widely-used AI tools and as being preferred due to their ease of
use and versatility.
The frequency of use is generally
rated as moderate to high by respondents; however, the degree to which AI tools
are integrated into a Librarian's day-to-day work varies, indicating that some
Librarians have not yet fully integrated AI tools into their workflow. Most of
the respondents to this survey view AI tools as being highly effective,
exhibiting confidence in the ability of AI tools to enhance service delivery
and improve the efficiency of their profession.
Challenges to the use of AI tools
include a lack of training, ethical concerns, technical difficulties, and
limited support from institutions. Providing structured training and ethical
guidelines, along with technical support and institutional initiatives, will be
critical to maximizing the benefit of AI tools within Libraries.
The overall findings of this
research indicate that AI has great potential to revolutionize Library
Services, and with adequate capacity development and support, Librarians will
be able to leverage AI tools to improve User Engagement, Deliver Information,
and enhance Productivity as Professionals.
7. References
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