Artificial Intelligence Skills and Competency Needs of Academic Librarians in the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Technology VOM, Plateau State

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly transforming information management and library services worldwide. This study examined the Artificial Intelligence skills and competency needs of librarians in the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Technology Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study comprised ten librarians working in the institution, and the entire population was used for the study due to its manageable size. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Artificial Intelligence Skills and Competency Needs of Librarians Questionnaire (AISCNLQ). The data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions. Findings revealed that librarians demonstrated moderate awareness of Artificial Intelligence technologies but had low levels of practical AI-related competencies. The study also found that librarians strongly acknowledged the need for training in Artificial Intelligence technologies, including AI-based information retrieval tools, digital library systems, and data analytics. Furthermore, the study identified major challenges affecting the acquisition of AI competencies among librarians, including lack of training opportunities, inadequate ICT infrastructure, limited funding, and insufficient institutional support. The study concludes that although librarians are aware of the growing relevance of Artificial Intelligence in library operations, their current level of AI competencies remains inadequate for effective adoption of AI-driven services. The study therefore recommends regular training programs, improved ICT infrastructure, institutional support, and increased funding to enhance Artificial Intelligence competencies among librarians.