Research article · 2026
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN RESEARCH AND INFORMATION SERVICES: TRANSFORMING KNOWLEDGE DISCOVERY, SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION, AND DIGITAL INFORMATION ECOSYSTEMS
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this paper is to understand the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on research and information services by summarizing the emerging applications, benefits, challenges, and future implications of AI in knowledge creation, organization, access and dissemination. In particular, it examines the impact of AI technologies on the current information landscapes of the scholarly communication system, digital library service, information retrieval, research information service, and knowledge management. Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper uses a conceptual review method based on the critical analysis and synthesis of the latest scientific literature, institutional reports and professional literature related to Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, digital libraries, research support systems, and information services. Findings: The study shows that AI tools, such as machine learning, NLP, generative AI, intelligent information retrieval systems, recommender systems, semantic search tools, automatic metadata generation and AI research assistants are dramatically improving research productivity and information service delivery. The results suggest that AI can aid in quicker literature retrieval, better information structuring, personalized knowledge retrieval, knowledge discovery automation, prediction, and more efficient digital library services. The study also highlights the key challenges of AI adoption, such as algorithmic bias, data privacy concerns, intellectual property rights, ethical concerns, lack of digital infrastructure, AI illiteracy, and potential over-reliance on AI systems. Implications: The paper emphasises that the way to ensure a successful use of AI in research and information service is to adopt a balanced approach for collaboration between human and artificial intelligence instead of replacing information professionals and researchers. There is a need for universities, libraries and research institutions to create AI governance strategies, build AI digital infrastructure, create competencies in information work with AI technologies, and support ethical and responsible use of AI technologies. Originality/Value: This paper's novelty lies in its holistic analysis of the intersection between the research, information and digital knowledge service worlds and the application of AI. This paper takes a comprehensive postition, combining technological, professional, ethical and institutional viewpoints to offer a more holistic perspective on the potential of AI to contribute to the strategic improvement of research and information services. The study offers insight for librarians, researchers, University administrators, policymakers as well as other professionals in the information space who are looking to responsibly embrace the use of AI in the enhancement and advancement of scholarly communication and knowledge management.
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence; Research Services; Information Services; Digital Libraries; Knowledge Management; Scholarly Communication
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