Factors affecting intention of academic librarians in Pakistan universities to use AI tools: an extension of the UTAUT model

Purpose – This study aims to identify major factors influencing the intention of academic librarians in Pakistani universities to use AI tools. Design/methodology/approach – This study has applied a modified version of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as a framework. Through simple random sampling, 245 Pakistani university library professionals were surveyed. Collected data was analysed using SPSS v26, followed by confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling. Findings – Results show that performance expectancy (PE), social influence (SI) and facilitating condition (FC) significantly impact the behavioural intention (BI) of this cohort to adopt and use AI tools. While BI has a statistically significant relationship with use behaviour (UB), UB also has a significantly positive relationship with the self-designed construct, service quality (SQ). Research limitations/implications – The current research was limited to university libraries and used a cross-sectional study because of time constraints. Practical implications – Training programs, tailored to a given library’s services, should be developed to enhance and innovate effective academic library service delivery through the upskilling of staff. Appropriate AI guidelines and policy documents would reinforce service quality. Originality/value – This study validates a modified UTAUT model in the context of artificial intelligence tools adoption among Pakistani academic librarians.