Exploring librarians’ perceptions of ChatGPT integration in South Korean Libraries
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22452/mjlis.vol31no2.5Keywords:
ChatGPT in libraries, Librarian perceptions, User services, Technology adoption, Generative AIAbstract
Generative AI technologies such as ChatGPT have attracted growing attention in library and information services due to their potential to enhance user support and operational efficiency. However, limited research has examined how librarians perceive and negotiate the adoption of ChatGPT within professional library contexts. This study explores: (i) how librarians perceive the use of ChatGPT in library services and operations; and (ii) how they evaluate the infrastructural conditions, necessary competencies, and training needs for implementing ChatGPT in library environments. Data were collected through focus group discussions with librarians from public and academic libraries in South Korea and analysed using qualitative content analysis. The findings reveal six major themes: ChatGPT adoption in libraries, application of ChatGPT to user services, utilisation of ChatGPT in library operations, implementation conditions, requirements for effective ChatGPT implementation, and future directions for ChatGPT in libraries. Participants generally viewed ChatGPT as a potentially useful tool for enhancing user services and improving work efficiency. However, they also expressed concerns regarding reliability, professional responsibility, workload, and institutional readiness. The findings further highlight the importance of information literacy, technical competencies, training, organisational support, and implementation guidelines for successful adoption. The study suggests that the integration of generative AI in libraries should be understood not merely as a technological innovation but as a professional and organisational transformation. By foregrounding librarians’ perspectives, this study contributes qualitative insights into the responsible and sustainable adoption of generative AI in library environments.
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