RoboScholar: pioneering robotic library services in Nigeria

Purpose This study aims to examine RoboScholar as a pioneering robotic initiative in Nigerian librarianship and explores its application within the University of Lagos Library. Despite growing scholarly discussions on robotics in libraries and predictions that robots would become an integral component of library services, empirical evidence of robotic deployment in Nigerian libraries remains limited. This study seeks to document the implementation of RoboScholar, examine its role in library service delivery, capture users’ and librarians’ experiences and identify opportunities and challenges associated with robotic services in an academic library environment. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory qualitative case study design was adopted. Data were obtained through direct observation of the library environment and RoboScholar activities, documentary analysis of institutional reports, website content, promotional materials, usage records and a 5-min, 35-s video uploaded by UNILAG Nigeria on YouTube. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with librarians responsible for managing the robotic service. The multiple data sources enabled triangulation and provided a comprehensive understanding of the implementation and utilisation of RoboScholar within the University of Lagos Library. Findings The findings reveal that RoboScholar represents one of the earliest documented applications of a humanoid robot in a Nigerian academic library and serves primarily as an interactive user engagement and information support tool. The robot is used for user orientation, welcoming visitors, promoting library services and facilitating basic information assistance. Users expressed positive perceptions of RoboScholar, describing it as innovative, engaging and reflective of the library’s commitment to technological advancement. Librarians perceived the robot as complementing rather than replacing professional services. Research limitations/implications This study provides empirical insights into the practical implementation of robotics within an African academic library context and contributes evidence to a field largely dominated by conceptual discussions and readiness studies. The study also suggests the integration of robotics and related technologies into library and information science education to prepare future professionals for intelligent and interactive information environments. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study presents one of the first documented case studies of a humanoid robot deployed in a Nigerian academic library. It moves beyond discussions of awareness and preparedness by providing practical evidence of robotics implementation, user experiences and service applications in a developing-country context. The study contributes to the growing discourse on smart libraries and offers valuable lessons for academic libraries seeking to explore robotic technologies as instruments for service innovation, user engagement and digital transformation.