Kibabii University successfully hosted its 5th Annual Information Professionals Workshop from March 13th to 14th, 2025. Organized by the Library Services and Documentation Center, the event brought together experts, scholars, and practitioners from across the country under the theme: “Libraries in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Innovation, Access, & Transformation”.
Officially opened by the Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Ipara Odeo, the Workshop provided a platform for information professionals to explore the transformative role of AI in modern library and information services. In his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor emphasized the inevitability of AI integration across various sectors and underscored the need for responsible adoption of this technology. He commended the workshop organizers, led by the In-Charge of Library Services and Documentation Center Mr. Samuel Wakahia, for convening a forum that fosters knowledge exchange and innovation amongst information professionals. He hailed the event as a significant step in bridging the gap between traditional library practices and AI-driven innovations.
“This forum reinforces our commitment to research and innovation in emerging technologies to enhance service delivery,” he stated.
During the event, the Vice Chancellor received a donation of books from the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation (JKF) worth Ksh.200,000 to support the University Library services. The donation was presented by the JKF Sales Representative Western Region, Mr. Zebedeo Matoke. He lauded the University for its spirited investment in preservation and archiving of literary works, notably the establishment of the Ken Walibora Corner at the University Library.
The two-day event attracted participants from diverse sectors, including universities, secondary schools, the Judiciary, County Governments, TVET institutions, and records management departments among others. Keynote addresses were delivered by renowned experts in information and communication, including Dr. Wekalao Namande, Mr. Isaac Manje, Mr. Prestone Simiyu, Mr. Alfred Masai, Ms. Noreen Mulati, and Mr. Samuel Sitati. Their discussions highlighted the necessity of AI-driven solutions in enhancing accessibility, streamlining services, and promoting communication in library environments.
Key topics explored included AI and Digital Preservation, AI and Open Access in Libraries, AI in Library Marketing, Communications, and Outreach, AI for Knowledge Discovery and Research, and Librarians as AI Facilitators.
The Workshop featured practical demonstrations on AI-powered cataloging, digital archiving, automated metadata generation, and AI-enhanced library communications and outreach. Participants also engaged in discussions on the ethical implications of AI adoption, particularly concerning data privacy and algorithmic biases.
Speaking during the closing session on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance, and Development), Prof. Donald Siamba, stressed the importance of AI in modernizing library services.
