Exploring the Mediating Role of Trust in the Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Communication Dynamics Among Librarians

Introduction: With the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in professional environments, medical science libraries have also undergone significant transformation. The effectiveness of these technologies largely depends on the level of trust in intelligent systems as well as interpersonal trust. This study was conducted to analyze the role of trust in the relationship between artificial intelligence and communication dynamics among medical librarians.
Methods: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of data collection. The statistical population consisted of all librarians working in libraries of medical universities in Tehran, with a sample size of 137 participants. Valid and standardized instruments were used to measure the research variables. Convergent and discriminant validity were applied to assess the measurement tools. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Smart PLS software.
Findings: The results indicated that artificial intelligence has a positive and significant effect on communication dynamics (path coefficient = 0.616). Artificial intelligence also has a positive effect on trust (path coefficient = 0.798). Furthermore, trust has a positive and significant effect on communication dynamics (path coefficient = 0.512).
Conclusion: The findings show that trust plays a partial mediating role in the relationship between artificial intelligence and communication dynamics. In other words, artificial intelligence influences communication dynamics not only directly but also indirectly through strengthening trust. These results highlight the importance of addressing both technological and human dimensions in implementing AI in medical libraries, as the success of this technology in improving communication depends on fostering and strengthening trust among its users.