New Report From the Association of Research Libraries (ARL): “Evolving AI Strategies in Libraries: Insights from Two Polls of ARL Member Representatives over Nine Months”
The onset of new, more accessible, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies marks a significant turning point for libraries, ushering in a period rich with both unparalleled opportunities and complex challenges. In this era of swift technological transformation, libraries stand at a critical intersection. To effectively chart this transition, two quick polls were conducted among members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL).
The first poll,which ran in April 2023, provided an initial snapshot of the AI landscape in libraries. The second poll, carried out in December 2023, continued this inquiry, offering a comparative perspective on the evolving dynamics of AI use and possibilities in library services. This study analyzes and juxtaposes the outcomes of these two surveys to better understand how library leaders are managing the complexities of integrating AI into their operations and services. It specifically seeks to capture changing perspectives on the potential impact of AI, assess the extent of AI exploration and implementation within libraries, and identify AI applications relevant to the current library environment.
The insights derived from this comparative analysis shed light on the role of libraries in an increasingly AI-driven era, providing strategic directions and highlighting practices in research libraries.
Gary Price (gprice@gmail.com) is a librarian, writer, consultant, and frequent conference speaker based in the Washington D.C. metro area.
He earned his MLIS degree from Wayne State University in Detroit.
Price has won several awards including the SLA Innovations in Technology Award and Alumnus of the Year from the Wayne St. University Library and Information Science Program. From 2006-2009 he was Director of Online Information Services at Ask.com.
The onset of new, more accessible, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies marks a significant turning point for libraries, ushering in a period rich with both unparalleled opportunities and complex challenges. In this era of swift technological transformation, libraries stand at a critical intersection. To effectively chart this transition, two quick polls were conducted among members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL).
