At the Crossroads of Curiosity and Caution: Generative AI in the Academic Library

Abstract

The rapid adoption of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education Institutions is reshaping information discovery, academic research, and learning practices. As trusted facilitators of information literacy, academic libraries are increasingly called upon to guide the ethical, responsible, and critical use of AI technologies. This poster presents findings from a library-led initiative at Heriot-Watt University Dubai involving more than 100 students across multiple academic schools. Through structured AI learning activities, facilitated discussions, and thematic analysis of student feedback, the study explored perceptions, benefits, and concerns surrounding generative AI. Findings indicate that students value AI for improving efficiency, brainstorming, and research support, while expressing concerns regarding academic integrity, information accuracy, data privacy, and ethical use. The study highlights the evolving role of librarians as AI literacy educators, research partners, digital skills facilitators, trusted information advisors, and contributors to institutional AI policy. The poster concludes with practical recommendations for integrating AI literacy, ethical guidance, and institutional frameworks into academic library services to promote responsible and informed engagement with generative AI.