The evolving role of Librarians in information literacy and AI

 

By Nontobeko Sikhosana

In an era where information is abundant and artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how we access and interpret knowledge; the role of librarians has never been more crucial—or more dynamic. Traditionally seen as gatekeepers of books and academic resources, librarians today are key players in helping communities navigate the ever-changing information landscape. They are no longer just custodians of knowledge but are emerging as digital guides, educators, and ethical stewards in the age of AI.

• From Information Seekers to Critical Thinkers

One of the most essential responsibilities of librarians is promoting information literacy. In a world flooded with misinformation, disinformation, and deepfakes, knowing how to find reliable information and evaluate its credibility is a critical life skill.

Librarians teach users how to:

Identify trustworthy sources

Evaluate bias and intent

Understand academic integrity

Use databases and search tools effectively

These skills empower students, researchers, and the general public to become critical thinkers in a digital-first world.

·       Embracing AI as a Tool and a Teaching Moment

As AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Bard, and others become increasingly integrated into daily research and learning, librarians are stepping up to guide their ethical and effective use.

Librarians are:

Introducing users to AI-powered research tools

Offering training on how to craft effective prompts

Teaching the basics of AI, including its limitations and ethical concerns

Helping institutions develop responsible AI use policies

By demystifying AI, librarians bridge the gap between technology and responsible information use.

·       Ethical Leadership and Digital Equity

AI raises important questions about privacy, bias, access, and data ownership. Librarians play a pivotal role in these conversations, advocating for:

Ethical information practices

Inclusive access to digital tools and AI technologies

Data literacy and protection

Institutional awareness of algorithmic bias

They also help ensure that underrepresented communities are not left behind in the AI revolution.

·       Librarians as Lifelong Learners and Educators

To stay ahead, librarians continuously upskill, experimenting with new technologies and adapting their services. Many now lead workshops, collaborate in digital humanities projects, and advise on research strategies that include AI integration.

They are indispensable partners in academia, supporting faculty, students, and researchers in navigating this evolving landscape.

Librarians are at the forefront of two critical missions: upholding information literacy and guiding responsible AI use. Their work ensures that individuals and institutions don’t just consume information and technology—but understand, question, and use it wisely.

In this fast-paced digital world, librarians are not being replaced by AI—they’re empowering us to use it better.

References

Akakpo, M.G., 2024. Skilled for the future: information literacy for AI use by university students in Africa and the role of librarians. Internet Reference Services Quarterly, 28(1), pp.19-26.

Hossain, Z., 2025. School librarians developing AI literacy for an AI-driven future: leveraging the AI Citizenship Framework with scope and sequence. Library Hi Tech News, 42(2), pp.17-21.

Cox, A.M. and Pinfield, S., 2020. Research data management and libraries: Current activities and future priorities. Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology, 71(11), pp.1341–1357. https://doi.org/10.1002/asi.24340

Hervieux, S. and Wheatley, A., 2024. Building an AI Literacy Framework: Perspectives from Instruction Librarians and Current Information Literacy Tools.