Readiness of Nigerian University Libraries for AI-Driven Collection Development: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic libraries presents transformative opportunities for enhancing collection development practices. However, the readiness of libraries particularly in developing countries like Nigeria to adopt AI-driven systems remains underexplored. This paper presents a systematic review of literature on the readiness of Nigerian university libraries for AI adoption in collection development. The review was conducted using structured searches across major academic databases including Google Scholar, Scopus, and African Journals Online (AJOL), targeting publications between 2018 and 2025. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and institutional reports discussing AI in library services, technological infrastructure, policy frameworks, and staff competencies. The findings were organised thematically around key readiness indicators: technological infrastructure, human resource capacity, policy support, and institutional willingness, challenges facing AI adoption and opportunities and positive trends. The study reveals that while there is increasing awareness of AI applications in library settings, actual readiness for adoption is limited by infrastructural deficits, lack of formal training, absence of AI-focused policies, and low funding. Nonetheless, a strong interest and willingness among library professionals suggest fertile ground for future interventions. The study concludes with practical recommendations including the development of institutional AI roadmaps, investment in librarians' upskilling, and strategic collaboration between libraries, universities, and technology partners to drive AI integration in collection development.