Opportunities and challenges of implementing artificial intelligence in academic library services: perspectives from LIS practitioners of Bangladesh

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to investigate Library and Information Science (LIS) practitioners’ opinions regarding the potential benefits and challenges of implementing artificial technologies into academic library services in Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach Library practitioners from three public universities offering LIS degrees were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A convenience sampling method was followed to reach the participants. A total of 16 practitioners were interviewed, and the collected data were analyzed using the thematic analysis technique. Findings The practitioners outlined several key opportunities and challenges for implementing artificial intelligence (AI) in academic libraries in Bangladesh. Facilitated user services and interaction, enhanced processing activities, smooth library operations and resource management and preference-based, cost-effective and speedy service were reported as significant potential benefits. On the other hand, ignorance, insufficient training and funds, inadequate ICT infrastructure, lack of emotional attachment and several ethical issues related to AI systems were identified as major potential barriers. Finally, the study provided some recommendations to successfully implement AI in academic libraries in Bangladesh. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first attempt to investigate LIS practitioners’ viewpoints on the opportunities and challenges of implementing AI in academic libraries in Bangladesh.

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