Artificial intelligence (ai) applications in academic libraries: evolution and future trends

Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a transformative technology in academic libraries, significantly changing library operations, information retrieval, and research support services. This paper examines the evolution of AI applications in academic libraries, from early automation systems to modern generative AI technologies. It highlights major AI applications such as intelligent cataloguing, chatbots, natural language processing, recommender systems, machine learning, plagiarism detection, and research analytics. The study also discusses the benefits, challenges, ethical concerns, and future trends associated with AI adoption in libraries. The findings indicate that AI improves operational efficiency, enhances user experience, and enables personalized research support services. However, issues such as algorithmic bias, data privacy, digital ethics, and governance remain significant concerns. The paper further emphasizes the evolving role of librarians as facilitators, digital literacy educators, and guides in responsible AI usage. With the support of AI technologies, librarians can transform academic libraries into intelligent knowledge hubs that promote AI literacy, innovation, and advanced research support.