Assessment of University Librarians’ ICT Skills and Competencies for Use of AI in the Provision of Information Services in Kenya

Abstract

Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in university libraries has resulted in automation of previously manual processes. Consequently, librarians need to upgrade their Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) skills and competencies to stay relevant. This study aimed to assess the ICT skills and competencies of librarians in Kenyan university libraries for adopting AI in the provision of information services. The objectives were to examine the ICT competency level of librarians in Kenyan university libraries, sources of ICT skills, and challenges in acquisition of ICT skills. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and a mixed methods approach. The target population was seven (7) university librarians and 33 library Heads of Sections (HOSs). Using census and purposive sampling techniques respectively, seven (7) university librarians and 33 HOSs respectively were sampled. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the HOSs, and interview schedules for university librarians. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) through descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study established that majority of the staff had high competence in basic, and intermediate ICT skills, but moderate competence in advanced ICT skills. On-the-job training, workshops and seminars were the most preferred methods for acquiring ICT skills, and lack of AI expertise, insufficient budgets and technological obsolescence were challenges in acquisition of ICT skills. The study concluded that the librarians had inadequate skills for adoption of AI. The study recommends that university libraries should invest in the training of their staff in advanced ICT skills, libraries and other educational institutions should provide training programs to improve the library staffs' proficiency in AI technologies, and universities’ management should support the training programs for library staff. This study guides AI-focused capacity building for librarians by identifying skills gaps in university libraries.

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