Exploring the Awareness, Readiness and Challenges of Utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools for Library Users with Visual and Hearing Impairment in Nigerian Universities

Abstract

This study explores the awareness, readiness and challenges of utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) tools among information providers for library users with visual and hearing impairment in Nigerian universities. The research employed a descriptive survey design with a sample population consisting of university librarians known as information providers at the federal, state and private universities across all the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Due to the larger number of universities (170) across Nigeria, a convenience sampling method was used to select ten universities from each of the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria and one from the Federal Capital Territory, giving a total of 61 universities. The finding showed that a higher percentage above 50% of the respondents was aware of AI tools. The result indicated the readiness of the respondents to adopt AI in delivering library and information services to users with visual and hearing impairment. The significant number of enthusiastic respondents indicated an inspiring future of AI adoption and utilization in academic libraries in Nigeria. Despite their awareness and readiness, there were certain challenges facing the utilization of AI for people with visual and hearing impairment in Nigeria university libraries. However, respondents were optimistic and resilient about AI’s utilization for users with disabilities.