Anthropomorphic AI in Academic Libraries

A Phenomenological Study of System Librarians' Lived Experiences across Nigerian Geopolitical Zones

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23974/ijol.2026.vol11.1.552

Abstract

This study investigates system librarians' perspectives and lived experiences with the integration of AI anthropomorphism in Nigerian academic libraries for web-based service delivery. A qualitative phenomenological approach was adopted, utilizing a focused group discussion with six system librarians purposively selected from across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Data from the semi-structured interview were analyzed thematically. The results revealed that AI anthropomorphism significantly enhances user engagement and accessibility, particularly for hesitant patrons, and offers operational benefits through personalized, scalable services. However, substantial challenges were identified, including risks of user misunderstanding, eroded trust, potential emotional dependency, and ethical dilemmas concerning data privacy and transparency. A clear generational divide in acceptance was also observed. The study concludes that the successful integration of anthropomorphic AI requires a balanced, human-centered approach guided by robust ethical frameworks to ensure these technologies augment rather than compromise the library's mission.

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Author Biographies

  • Adeniy Isaiah Kayode, Landmark University, Omu-Aran

    Adeniyi Isaiah Kayode (Corresponding author: kayode.adeniyi@lmu.edu.ng) is a Technical/Readers' Service Librarian at the Centre for Learning Resources, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria. He holds an MLIS from the University of Ilorin and a B/TECH in Information and Communications Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Yola. He is pursuing a PhD in Library and Information Science in University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria. His research interests center on the adoption of emerging technologies in academic libraries, including cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence, and blockchain applications. He has published extensively in both local and international journals, with contributions to The Journal of Academic Librarianship, Internet Reference Services Quarterly, and Library Hi Tech News, among others. His work explores user-friendliness, digital competence, and the integration of innovative systems to enhance library services and operational effectiveness.

  • Adeyinka Tella, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria

    Adeyinka Tella is a Professor and Head of the Department of Library and Information Science at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Guidance and Counselling/Political Science and two Master's degrees, one in Counselling Psychology and another in Library and Information Studies, all from the University of Ibadan. He earned his Ph.D. in Test, Measurement, and Evaluation through a Commonwealth Scholarship at the University of Botswana. His research focuses on ICT4Development, e-learning, information literacy, and information ethics. A prolific author and journal editor, he has received multiple awards, including the Dr. T.M. Salisu Award for Most Published Librarian in Nigeria and the Emerald Literati Award for Outstanding Paper. He holds a C2 researcher rating from the South African National Research Foundation and has been appointed a Distinguished Professor at the University of South Africa.

  • George Osas Eromosele, University of Ilorin, Ilorin

    George Osas Eromosele is a dedicated library professional at University library at university of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria with academic training in Library and Information Science. He has contributed to scholarly publications and is passionate about digital libraries, information systems, and emerging technologies. His research interests include ICT, data management, and innovation in academic library services.

  • Sunday Adebisi Oguntayo, Al-hikmah University, Ilorin, Nigeria

    Sunday Adebisi Oguntayo is a senior lecturer at Al-hikmah university, Ilorin, Kwara State . He holds Bachelor of Library Science degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and Master of Library of Information Science from Delta State University, Abraka.  He earned his Ph.D. in  Library and Information Science at  Badcock university, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria  He has published some papers in professional journals. He is a registered member of Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria (LRCN), member, Nigerian Library Association; member Nigerian Library Association Cataloguing, Classification and Indexing and member Nigerian Library Association of Medical Library.

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Published

2026-03-31

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Vol. 11 No. 1 (2026)

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How to Cite

Anthropomorphic AI in Academic Libraries: A Phenomenological Study of System Librarians’ Lived Experiences across Nigerian Geopolitical Zones. (2026). International Journal of Librarianship, 11(1), 133-150. https://doi.org/10.23974/ijol.2026.vol11.1.552