University Librarians’ Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence, Its Application Areas in Libraries, and the Future

Abstract

Today, libraries are among the institutions affected by changing technology and innovations. The popularization of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has also begun to transform library services. In this research, a survey was conducted to determine the adjustments that university libraries in Turkey have made and plan to make during the development process of AI technologies and applications, and to identify the services they have developed specific to the relevant period. The survey was carried out with the participation of 111 university library managers from 208 university libraries in Turkey. Through the analysis of the data, the status, knowledge, and awareness levels of university libraries regarding AI technologies and applications were determined, and measures and recommendations were presented to improve deficiencies and weaknesses. This research is the first and most comprehensive study conducted in Turkey by obtaining opinions and suggestions from university library managers on artificial intelligence. The research findings revealed that university libraries use AI applications such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grammarly to a certain extent; however, they have needs in developing institutional policies, enhancing personnel competencies, and planning related to AI.