Abstract:

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic libraries is revolutionizing the landscape of scholarly communications and open access librarianship. This study examines the pivotal role of AI-powered research tools in enhancing ICT skills and digital literacy among academic professionals and students. By facilitating sophisticated search algorithms, predictive analytics, and automated data processing, AI tools significantly streamline the research process, promoting efficiency and precision in academic inquiry.

This research employs a mixed-method approach to analyze the implications of AI technologies on the dissemination, retrieval, and management of scholarly resources. We assess the proficiency gains in ICT skills among library users through the utilization of AI tools such as chatbots for information assistance, AI-enhanced database management systems, and machine learning algorithms for curating open access repositories.

Furthermore, the study evaluates the impact of AI on digital literacy by exploring how these technologies aid users in discerning the credibility and relevance of scholarly materials. By correlating the increased use of AI tools with the advancement in users' digital competencies, we offer a comprehensive overview of the transformative power of AI in academic settings.

In addition, the paper discusses the ethical considerations and challenges that AI introduces, such as data privacy, user autonomy, and the potential biases within algorithmic frameworks. It also outlines strategies for academic libraries to effectively implement AI tools while fostering an environment of ethical digital scholarship.

The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the symbiotic relationship between AI research tools and scholarly communications. We argue that AI not only augments digital literacy and ICT skills but also acts as a catalyst for a more open, accessible, and equitable scholarly communication system. As academic libraries stand at the cusp of this technological renaissance, it is imperative to understand and leverage AI's potential to reshape the future of scholarly discourse and education.

Keywords:

Emerging Technologies, AI research tools, Digital literacy, scholarly communications, Academic Libraries.