Exploring the impact of AI literacy on innovative behavior: insights from medical head librarians in Pakistan

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the self-perceived artificial intelligence (AI) literacy of medical head librarians in Pakistan, assess their self-perceived innovative behavior and examine the relationship between AI literacy and innovative behavior. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 124 medical head librarians from institutions recognized by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council and the Higher Education Commission. Data were collected through validated AI literacy and innovative behavior scales and analyzed using SPSS-25 for descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis. Findings Medical head librarians reported high levels of AI literacy (mean = 3.65 and SD = 0.627) and innovative behavior (mean = 3.98 and SD = 0.613). AI literacy significantly correlated with and predicted innovative behavior (r = 0.571, p < 0.001 and R² = 0.326). The findings of this study highlight the critical role of AI literacy in fostering innovative behavior. Challenges such as limited problem-solving skills underscore the need for targeted capacity-building programs. Originality/value Enhancing AI literacy can empower medical librarians to drive innovation, improving library services and supporting health-care professionals effectively.