Abstract:
Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in university libraries has resulted in automation of
previously manual processes. Consequently, librarians need to upgrade their Information and
Communication Technologies (ICT) skills and competencies to stay relevant. This study aimed to
assess the ICT skills and competencies of librarians in Kenyan university libraries for adopting AI
in the provision of information services. The objectives were to examine the ICT competency level
of librarians in Kenyan university libraries, sources of ICT skills, and challenges in acquisition of
ICT skills. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and a mixed methods approach. The
target population was seven (7) university librarians and 33 library Heads of Sections (HOSs).
Using census and purposive sampling techniques respectively, seven (7) university librarians and
33 HOSs respectively were sampled. Questionnaires were used to collect data from the HOSs, and
interview schedules for university librarians. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical
Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) through descriptive and inferential statistics, while
qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study established that majority of the staff had
high competence in basic, and intermediate ICT skills, but moderate competence in advanced ICT
skills. On-the-job training, workshops and seminars were the most preferred methods for acquiring
ICT skills, and lack of AI expertise, insufficient budgets and technological obsolescence were
challenges in acquisition of ICT skills. The study concluded that the librarians had inadequate
skills for adoption of AI. The study recommends that university libraries should invest in the
training of their staff in advanced ICT skills, libraries and other educational institutions should
provide training programs to improve the library staffs' proficiency in AI technologies, and
universities’ management should support the training programs for library staff. This study gui
