چكيده لاتين
The present study was conducted with the aim of identifying and prioritizing the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in the delivery of services in public libraries. In terms of purpose, this research is applied, and in terms of approach, it is a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) exploratory study. In the qualitative phase, the research synthesis method and systematic review were used, and in the quantitative phase, the fuzzy Delphi method was employed. The research population in the qualitative phase consisted of articles published between 2015 and 2025 related to the field of artificial intelligence and public libraries, and in the quantitative phase, it consisted of experts in these fields. The sampling method in both the qualitative and quantitative parts was purposive. Ultimately, by applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 relevant articles (10 Persian articles and 41 English articles) published between 2015 and 2025 were selected and identified. The data collection tools were checklists and note-taking. The data analysis method was thematic analysis using an open coding approach, and Cohenʹs Kappa coefficient was used to determine reliability and inter-coder agreement. The findings indicated the identification of 24 opportunities, categorized into four main themes: "Transformation of Services and Enhancement of Public and Reference Service Quality," "Optimization of Technical Services and Resource Processing," "Management Improvement and Cost Reduction," and "Digital and Information Technology Services." Furthermore, 15 challenges were identified and grouped into five main categories: "Technical and Infrastructural Challenges," "Human Resources and Skill-Related Challenges," "Ethical, Legal, and Security Challenges," "Financial and Economic Challenges," and "Cultural, Organizational, and Managerial Challenges." Based on the Delphi results, the most significant opportunities from the perspective of Iranian experts included: "Analysis of user behavior and information data," which presents an opportunity for intelligent collection management, predicting information needs, increasing the accuracy of resource acquisition, and reducing unnecessary costs; "Designing resource recommendation systems," which provides an opportunity to personalize the reading experience based on user interests and behavior; and "Implementing intelligent feedback systems," which offers an opportunity for continuous assessment of user satisfaction and improving library services based on actual user needs. The most critical challenges identified were: "Lack of macro-level strategy and roadmap," "Insufficient budget allocation," and "Weak IT infrastructure." Artificial intelligence holds significant potential for transforming and qualitatively enhancing the services of public libraries in Iran, potentially leading to increased efficiency, improved user experience, and the development of innovative services. However, successful implementation requires simultaneously addressing the identified challenges, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, human resources, and funding. Formulating a comprehensive strategy, investing in the training and empowerment of public librarians, and developing pilot projects were among the practical recommendations of this research
