Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers vast potential to make libraries more inclusive for visually impaired users, Dr. Osman Imoro, Assistant Librarian at the University of Cape Coast, has said.
Speaking during the second day of the 11th Summer School for University Library Staff at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Imoro urged libraries to integrate AI-driven accessibility tools into their systems to promote equal access to information.
“AI should make libraries more accessible to everyone. When we design our systems, we must think about users with special needs. AI tools that assist the visually impaired can make a huge difference in achieving our mission of equal access to information,” he said.
The session, themed “Practical AI Tools for Library Services,” was part of a hands-on exploration of how artificial intelligence can transform modern library operations. It built on the previous day’s discussions on AI concepts and ethics.
Dr. Imoro began by highlighting the abundance of AI tools available to information professionals, cautioning against trying to master too many at once. “AI tools are plenty, so stick to one, or else you will be confused on how to use all. The key is to start small, learn deeply, and then expand gradually as you gain confidence,” he advised.
Two major practical sessions followed. The first introduced participants to SciSpace, an AI-driven research platform that simplifies literature reviews and academic writing. Participants explored its features, including searching, summarising, and citing scholarly articles.
“SciSpace is a game changer for librarians. It allows us to engage with academic literature more critically and efficiently, ultimately enhancing the support we provide to students,” Dr. Imoro noted.
The second session focused on generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Hypotenuse AI, Writesonic, and Google Gemini. Librarians used these tools to generate MARC records, create subject headings, and design social media campaigns using Canva, demonstrating how AI can support both cataloguing and user engagement.
