Transforming Academic Libraries in Pakistan through AI for Inclusive Education: Enhancing Access and Engagement for Students

Abstract

With the evolution of higher education in Pakistan, academic libraries are increasingly adopting the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Libraries often face financial constraints that limit their ability to cater to students with diverse needs. AI is an innovative instrument that provides individual learners with an individually tailored educational experience. As for the case of AI technologies, the uptake is comparatively nascent to a level where AI technologies execute all-inclusive functions in institutions. Chatbots and Speech-to-Text Technology are extremely useful in satisfying students’ academic needs as these are personalized, robust services. The more advanced AI tools, such as Voice Searching, Intelligent Data Analysis, and Image Recognition, have been adopted more slowly and have lower levels of user satisfaction. This research aims to investigate the current status of AI services in academic libraries of Pakistan, as well as user perspectives and satisfaction levels regarding these digital technologies. The purpose of this study is to investigate the AI-driven transformation in Pakistani academic libraries, with a specific focus on enhancing accessibility and engagement experiences for students. This study aims to explore the feasibility of implementing AI-based services in academic libraries in Pakistan, assess student satisfaction with AI technologies, and evaluate the potential impact of these tools on students' learning experience.  The study employs a quantitative research design, collecting data through structured questionnaires disseminated to students. The questionnaire was designed to focus on assessing students' knowledge, satisfaction, and the impact of AI-based services adopted in academic libraries. SPSS software was used to analyze the collected data from students to validate these findings through statistical analysis. Findings of the study reaffirm that the implementation of AI tools, including Chatbots and Speech-to-Text Technology, has significantly increased Students's engagement and satisfaction levels in academic libraries in Pakistan. These tools are rated highly, particularly because of their usefulness and effectiveness at meeting the academic requirements of Students. On the other hand, tools like Voice Searching and Intelligent Data Analysis exhibited lower satisfaction ratings, indicating that these functions are not meeting user expectations. The results demonstrate that AI can revolutionize library services, but continued development is required for efficient and scalable implementation of AI technology.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence (AI), academic libraries, AI based library services, personalized learning, student engagement, educational outcomes, Pakistan