• Sana Sayeed
• Dr. Rohit Sharma

The rapid digital transformation of higher education institutions has redefined the traditional role of academic libraries, positioning them as intelligent knowledge hubs that leverage emerging technologies to enhance scholarly communication and institutional visibility. This study examines the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on knowledge management practices and open access initiatives within academic libraries. It explores how AI-driven tools—such as machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, intelligent cataloguing systems, and predictive analytics—are reshaping information organization, retrieval, research support services, and institutional repository management. The paper adopts a systematic review and conceptual analysis approach, synthesizing recent scholarly literature to identify key opportunities, implementation challenges, and strategic implications associated with AI integration in library ecosystems. Findings indicate that AI enhances metadata generation, research discoverability, personalized user services, and automation of repository workflows, thereby strengthening open access dissemination and academic collaboration. However, issues related to digital infrastructure, ethical concerns, data privacy, algorithmic bias, skill gaps, and financial constraints pose significant barriers to effective adoption. The study proposes a strategic framework for transitioning from traditional service-oriented models to intelligent, AI-enabled knowledge management systems that align with institutional research goals and sustainable development priorities. By integrating AI technologies with open access policies, higher education institutions can improve research visibility, operational efficiency, and knowledge democratization. The paper contributes to the evolving discourse on smart academic libraries and provides actionable insights for policymakers, library professionals, and institutional leaders seeking to foster innovation in scholarly communication.

Artificial Intelligence, Academic Libraries, Knowledge Management, Open Access, Institutional Repositories, Higher Education Institutions.

"From Traditional to Intelligent Libraries: AI-Driven Knowledge Management and Open Access in Higher Education Institutions", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 3, page no.b487-b494, March-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2603160.pdf

"From Traditional to Intelligent Libraries: AI-Driven Knowledge Management and Open Access in Higher Education Institutions", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 3, page no. ppb487-b494, March-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2603160.pdf