UNLOCKING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE POTENTIAL IN KENYAN LIBRARIES: A  NATIONAL READINESS AND NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Wasike J., Kimote Z.,  Wafubwa R

Wasike J., Kimote Z., Wafubwa R Kirinyaga University, KENYA

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Library Readiness; Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) Framework; Kenya; Scoping Review.

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming global knowledge ecosystems, yet its adoption within African library systems remains uneven. Thus, while Kenya possesses a robust national digital agenda, empirical evidence regarding sector-wide library readiness is fragmented. This study systematically assesses AI awareness, current applications, multi-dimensional readiness, operational barriers, and strategic priorities within academic, public, school, special, national, and community libraries in Kenya. Grounded in the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, the study used a scoping review methodology following the PRISMA-ScR pipeline. Synthesizing data from 58 peer-reviewed publications
and institutional documents published between 2019 and 2026, the study employed thematic analysis to map the national baseline. The thematic synthesis reveals a distinct "awareness–implementation gap." while conceptual awareness of AI among information professionals is high, operational implementation is low, placing overall national readiness in the "Moderate-Low" tier. Key structural barriers include a profound practical skills deficit, funding constraints and lack of localized institutional strategies. Despite a supportive national macro-environment, a critical micro-policy gap exists regarding sector-specific guidelines for data privacy, ethics, and algorithmic governance. Technical services (cataloguing and
metadata generation) and intelligent information retrieval were identified as the highest priority areas for AI integration. Sustainable AI integration in Kenyan libraries is constrained by structural and human capital deficits rather than professional resistance. To transition libraries into active participants of the algorithmic knowledge economy, the study proposes a five-part strategic framework: establishing a library-specific national governance policy, modernizing LIS curricula, upgrading core digital infrastructure baselines, fostering strategic public-private partnerships, and initiating longitudinal empirical research.