Developing the Digital Skills of Library Professionals in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

At this stage in the development of society, artificial intelligence becomes a tool as familiar as a calculator or search system. The library sector is not an exception: in recent years, there has been a lot of discussion on the prospects and practices of introducing AI technologies into the activities of libraries. These changes pose new requirements for the professional training of specialists, especially with regard to the formation and development of digital competences. The modern librarian is not only a custodian and organizer of information resources, but also a mediator between the user, information technology and the digital environment. In this context, knowledge of data handling skills, understanding of algorithms for searching and processing information, as well as the ability to use digital platforms and intelligent services become key elements of professional competence. The article is an author’s understanding of current problems of digital skills of university librarians and an analysis of their possibilities for development under various forms of professional education with the use of new information technologies. The development of complex competencies related to the use of various online services, analytical tools and artificial intelligence tools comes to the fore. Special attention is given to the integration of librarians into the digital space of higher education. In the context of digitalization, universities are actively implementing electronic resources, distance learning platforms and intellectual assistants, librarians have the opportunity not only to accompany users in the process of searching for information, but also to act as mentors in mastering digital practices. The results of the study show that the development of digital skills of specialists is effectively achieved through a complex of forms of professional development: online courses, webinars, modular training programs and project activities. This approach allows individual educational trajectories to be taken into account, supports motivation for self-learning and forms a sustainable culture of digital professionalism. The development of digital competences of library professionals in the age of artificial intelligence is an essential condition for the successful transformation of libraries. It ensures their digital competitiveness and strengthens the role of librarians as mediators between information, technology and society. JEL: D83; I23; L86