Defining artificial intelligence for librarians

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to define Artificial Intelligence (AI) for librarians by examining general definitions of AI, analysing the umbrella of technologies that make up AI, defining types of use case by area of library operation, and then reflecting on the implications for the profession, including from an equality, diversity and inclusion perspective. The paper is a conceptual piece based on an exploratory literature review, targeting librarians interested in AI from a strategic rather than a technical perspective. Five distinct types of use cases of AI are identified for libraries, each with its own underlying drivers and barriers, and skills demands. They are applications in library back-end processes, in library services, through the creation of communities of data scientists, in data and AI literacy and in user management. Each of the different applications has its own drivers and barriers. It is hard to anticipate the impact on professional work but as information environment becomes more complex it is likely that librarians will continue to have a very important role, especially given AI’s dependence on data. However, there could be some negative impacts on equality, diversity and inclusion if AI skills are not spread widely.

Exploring the Integration of AI in Public Library Services

“…Moreover, the ethical considerations highlighted by Bubinger & Dinneen (2021) align with our study's emphasis on the need for ethical guidelines and practical approaches to ensure responsible AI deployment (Bubinger & Dinneen, 2021). This study further supports the call for inclusivity and ethical consideration in AI applications within libraries, as discussed by Cox & Mazumdar (2022) (Cox & Mazumdar, 2022).…”

“…The discourse around AI in libraries also encompasses issues of ethics, diversity, and inclusion. Cox & Mazumdar (2022) stress the necessity of ensuring that AI deployment is conducted responsibly, promoting equitable access and representation within the digital offerings of libraries (Cox & Mazumdar, 2022). Such considerations are paramount to fostering an environment where AI technologies benefit all users equitably, without exacerbating existing disparities or introducing new forms of bias.…”

AI Literacy in Academic Library Instruction: An Environmental Scan

“…However, instruction and information literacy were not specifically explored, but instead were seen as an area for further study: "The new forms of information literacy deserve a closer look from research libraries, whose core task is to empower their patrons in the AI-enhanced information environment" (Gasparini & Kautonen, 2022). The possible integrations of AI and data literacy as part of libraries' information literacy efforts are beginning to be considered (Cox & Mazumdar, 2022).…”

Sosyal Fayda için Yapay Zeka

“…Literatüre bakıldığında tam da katılımcılarımızın dediği gibi eşitlik, çeşitlilik ve kapsayıcılık üzerindeki olumsuz etkileri azaltmak için YZ becerilerinin geniş çapta yayılmasını sağlamanın önemi vurgulanıyor. (Cox ve Mazumdar, 2022). Daha genel bir perspektifle toplumsal çeşitliliğe bakıldığında da YZ'nın geliştirilme süreçlerinden başlayarak çeşitliliğin sağlanabileceği vurgulanıyor.…”