The Double-Edged Sword of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Libraries and Research

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) which as described by Onwubiko is a replication of human intelligence planted in machines as the brain and programmed to think and act as human but powered by computer. Purpose: The study is an investigation into the beautiful and ugly sides of applications and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in Academic libraries and research. Methods: It adopted a descriptive survey, while a Likert four point type structured questionnaire was the only instrument used for data collection. The instrument was validated by three experts in measurement and evaluation using Cronbach’s alpha. Result showed coefficient of 𝛼=0.80. Data collected were analyzed using frequencies and simple percentile and presented in tables. Results: The outcome of the study revealed among other things that application and use of AI in academic library will AI knows everything and can replace human researchers among others. enhance service provision to users and can positively enhance academic research. While on the negative side, AI may not always provide accurate prediction or decision, depending on the complexity of the task and quality of data. With it, academic research, data security is not guaranteed that at a point in time. Also, researchers might start to think that Conclusions: Librarians and researchers agree that the application and utilization of AI will enhance library services and also enhance researchers’ scientific discovery and accelerates research process. Librarians in academic libraries in Nigeria should discard the allayed fears and view AI from the angle that it is a vital tool for the provision of vital information and enhancement of knowledge. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Academic library, Librarian, Researcher, Information and Communication