Role of Academic Libraries in AI Supported Information Literacy Programs

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital information has significantly increased the importance of information literacy in academia. Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a powerful technological component that enhances information access and ethical usage. The transformative role of AI in developing information literacy, with special reference to academic libraries discussed here. AI-based search engines, plagiarism detection tools, automated summarization systems, and intelligent recommendation models have revolutionized information critical evaluation. Academic libraries now integrate AI-driven catalogues, virtual help desks, smart repositories, and writing assistance services to support research. AI strengthens ethical authorship, improves independent access to scholarly material, and reduces information overload. Despite these advantages, challenges such as algorithmic bias, ethical misuse, data privacy concerns, and unequal access persist. The paper brings out that responsible integration of AI, supported by academic policies, librarian training, and curriculum-based instruction, will lead to development of informed, competent, and digitally literate learners.