How Are Libraries Adapting to the Rapid Advancements in AI Technology?
Libraries are finding themselves at the forefront of the AI revolution. As artificial intelligence continues to advance at a rapid pace, librarians are being forced to adapt their daily tasks and rethink the way they provide information literacy and protect patron privacy.
The impact of AI on libraries cannot be ignored, and it is predicted that 2024 will be a pivotal year for the industry as automation becomes more prevalent within library systems.
One area where AI is expected to make a significant improvement is in research and catalog management. Automation has the potential to streamline these processes and revolutionize the way libraries operate. Additionally, there are many other emerging trends that could reshape libraries in the coming years.
For example, a recent report from a reading agency in the UK revealed that the demand for e-books, journals, and audiobooks has increased significantly compared to physical books. To meet the changing preferences of patrons, libraries will need to enhance their automation capabilities and offer virtual versions of their resources, particularly for e-literature and e-resources.
The expectations of library patrons are evolving, and they now expect a seamless and convenient access to library resources. Some libraries have already started to offer virtual services, and this trend is expected to continue as libraries strive to enhance engagement and sustainability within their communities.
Catering to the virtual needs of users, whether they are physically present or online, is crucial for increasing user numbers. In this aspect, libraries in the United States are leading the way. For instance, the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) offers free digital access to books, ensuring that they meet the demands of their patrons.
Last year, DPLA introduced The Banned Book Club, a platform that allows members affected by book bans to access these books for free through the Palace e-reader app. John S. Bracken, the executive director of DPLA, highlighted the importance of technology in achieving their mission of providing knowledge for all.
DPLA goes beyond being just a library by collaborating with a large network of patrons to create and share multimedia content, making it accessible to everyone.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the library culture may not be welcomed by all patrons, but it undoubtedly simplifies the day-to-day tasks of librarians. Many libraries have already embraced virtual assistants and smart speakers, resulting in more efficient management of their e-collections through improved voice recognition bots.
AI is revolutionizing the role of librarians by taking on laborious tasks such as inventory management and monitoring. For instance, some libraries are employing ChatGPT to ensure that books adhere to legal guidelines. By employing AI for censorship purposes, staff members save valuable time that can be redirected towards community-oriented activities and engaging with library users.
AI also enables libraries to gain valuable insights through analytics, helping them understand patron usage patterns and preferences. This allows libraries to optimize their collections and plan accordingly. Moreover, AI systems can enhance patrons’ experiences by providing automatic recommendations based on their reading history and preferences.
While leveraging technology, libraries must prioritize patron privacy and carefully select vendors who uphold this principle. Testing the AI solutions in beta mode before implementing them ensures that librarians have the freedom to decide whether or not to adopt them. Kira Smith, a librarian at Ask a Librarian, emphasized the importance of protecting patrons’ privacy, stating, “It’s nobody else’s business what you like to read, so I would think long and hard before sharing that kind of circulation data with any sort of AI or other system.”
Transparency is crucial in informing users about the information that AI tools may gather and how it will be utilized in the future. The librarian plays a vital role in ensuring that everyone understands and is comfortable with these processes. While AI can be a valuable tool, it can never fully replace the role of a librarian.