THE INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND ROBOTIC IN CATALOGUING AND CIRCULATION OPERATIONS IN SELECTED LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA
This study investigated the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics in cataloguing and circulation processes within digital libraries in Nigeria. It sought to determine the current level of adoption, evaluate the impact of these technologies on routine administrative efficiency, and identify structural barriers impeding their implementation. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The target population consisted of librarians and system administrators across selected university libraries in Nigeria. Data collection was executed using a structured electronic questionnaire titled AI and Robotics Integration Questionnaire (AIRIQ). Out of 134 administered questionnaires, 134 valid responses were retrieved and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, mean scores, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that while there is a remarkably high conceptual awareness of generative AI, chatbots, and RFID-based automated circulation systems among information professionals, actual deployment remains nascent. The integration of AI algorithms for descriptive cataloguing and robotic applications for automated book retrieval significantly enhances user satisfaction, shortens service delivery time, and eliminates human errors in shelf management. Full-scale integration is faced by foundational challenges, which include infrastructural deficit, persistent power instability, and poor internet connectivity. It is concluded that without a deliberate overhaul of digital infrastructure, Nigerian academic libraries risk technological obsolescence. Based on these findings, the study recommends that university management allocate specific budget votes to build robust ICT infrastructure, ensuring a steady power supply and high-speed internet bandwidth. Library boards must implement mandatory capacity-building and continuous professional development training programs to bridge the emerging AI skill gaps among librarians. National policy frameworks should be established by the Librarians’ Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN) to regulate the ethical deployment of data-driven AI systems and protect user privacy.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Digital Libraries, Automated Cataloguing, Circulation Services, Nigeria.
