Vol. 1 Issue 1 - 2024
This article explores professional development and use of artificial intelligence by librarians in universities in Southwestern, Nigeria. The integration of AI into library services and operations is reshaping the role of librarians and the services they provide. The paper highlighted technical proficiency, user-oriented design, ethical awareness, programming, data management, using and managing big data AI literacy, and troubleshooting skills, as skills needed by librarians in university libraries in Nigeria to harness AI's potential fully. Therefore, training in the use of AI is essential for librarians to handle this transition. This study also offers a professional development roadmap that emphasises flexible training programs, workshops, certification programs and collaboration with technology firms, incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into library education, and continuous learning opportunities as strategies to develop librarians professionally. It is concluded that as libraries in Nigeria evolve into technologically advanced knowledge centers, librarians must acquire competencies that extend beyond traditional librarianship to include advanced ICT skills. It was therefore recommended that libraries should promote lifelong learning and AI use by offering continuous training programs, including webinars, certification and ethics workshops, ensuring staff remain updated on emerging technologies and regulatory frameworks. Universities should also collaborate with other universities, technology experts and form consortia to share resources and collectively address AI-related challenges.
Artificial Intelligence, Professional Development, Librarians, Universities
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