International Journal of Academic Research in Education and Review

Vol. 14(1), pp. 1-7, March 2026

ISSN: 2360-7866

https://doi.org/10.14662/ijarer2026020

 

Full Length Research

 

 

Transforming Academic Library Services through Artificial Intelligence for Greater Efficiency in Nigerian Higher Institutions of Learning

 

1Olalekan S. Ola CLN and 2Sunday Tunmibi (Ph.D.)

 

1Auchi Polytechnic Library, Auchi, Edo State-Nigeria. 2Department of Information Management, Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. E-mail: Tunmibi.Sunday@lcu.edu.ng

Corresponding author’s E-mail: simeonclexy@gmail.com  

Accepted 30 March 2026

Abstract

Abstract: In the digital era, Nigerian academic libraries are undergoing significant transformation through the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This study explores transforming academic library services through artificial intelligence for greater efficiency in Nigerian higher institutions of learning; how AI can be applied to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and user satisfaction in library service delivery. Drawing from extant and relevant literature, it examines the concept of AI, concept of library, perception of librarians towards artificial intelligence in academic libraries, and areas where artificial intelligence technology could help the academic library service delivery, such as information retrieval, cataloguing, classification, data analysis, e-reference services, knowledge management, and the use of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and robotics. The paper also identifies challenges of artificial intelligence in Nigerian academic libraries such as limited technical expertise, funding constraints, fear of job loss, unstable power supply, and linguistic barriers. Also, benefits of artificial intelligence in Nigerian academic libraries. By synthesising current research and best practices, the study underscores the transformative potential of AI in creating more efficient and user-focused academic libraries in higher institutions of learning in Nigeria. It concludes with recommendations that library staff should participate in continuous AI training and retraining through seminars, workshops, and conferences to develop practical skills and stay updated on emerging technologies for effective library operations, etc.

 

Key Words: Artificial Intelligence, academic libraries, service delivery, efficiency, digital transformation.

Paper type: research