Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Technologies among Librarians in Higher Education Libraries: Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial intelligence is used to support teaching, research, and information access in higher education. Libraries are part of this development because they handle large amounts of information and provide services that benefit from automation and advanced data processing. This study reviews current evidence on how artificial intelligence is being used in academic libraries and why this area of research is important for professional practice.Method: A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA framework. Peer-reviewed articles and conference papers published between 2019 and 2025 were searched in Scopus, LISA, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. After screening for relevance, removing duplicates, and assessing quality, forty-eight studies were included. The studies were examined through thematic analysis to identify common directions in technology use, librarian skills, adoption patterns, and the difficulties reported in the literature.Results: The review identifies four central areas of activity. These include the introduction of artificial intelligence tools for user support and technical services, the development of skills required by librarians, the varied pace of adoption across regions, and the presence of institutional and technical challenges that influence implementation. Together, these areas provide an overview of current work on artificial intelligence in academic libraries.Conclusion: The review shows that artificial intelligence is becoming more common in academic library operations, but effective use depends on continuous skills development, supportive policies, and improved institutional readiness. The study offers a consolidated view that can guide responsible planning and future decision-making in higher education libraries.