AI in the Library

Libraries are leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) in subtle yet impactful ways behind the scenes, enhancing efficiency and improving user experiences. At the University of Tampa's Macdonald-Kelce Library, we utilize ExLibris' AI-powered tools to enrich metadata for our records, improving discoverability and accessibility of our resources.

On a larger scale, OCLC employs AI to sift through billions of records in WorldCat, identifying and merging duplicates. In the past year alone, this technology has helped remove over 5.4 million duplicate records, significantly streamlining the global library catalog. AI currently is working to enhance metadata, create summaries, abstracts, and book recommendations. This data refinement not only enhances search results but also improves overall usability for libraries worldwide.

Using AI within our library system Here at UTampa, we've been utilizing an AI tool called DARA (Data Analysis Recommendation Assistant) since we implemented the Alma library system. Our library system helps us navigate thousands of configuration notes to navigate and modify our library system. DARA is designed to: Identify potential issues within our library system Offer guidance on internal improvements Suggest workflow optimizations Validate our custom configurations It's important to note that DARA, like other AI tools in libraries, is not meant to replace human expertise. Instead, it complements our librarians' skills, helping us perform our jobs more effectively and ultimately enhancing the library experience for both staff and students.

By embracing these AI-driven innovations, we at the Macdonald-Kelce Library are continually working to improve our services and ensure that our resources are as accessible and user-friendly as possible. These behind-the-scenes improvements reflect our commitment to providing the best possible library experience for the UTampa community.

References:

Implementing AI to further scale and accelerate WorldCat de-duplication 04 February 2025
https://www.oclc.org/en/news/announcements/2025/ai-worldcat-deduplication.html 

OCLC introduces AI-generated book recommendations in WorldCat.org and WorldCat Find beta Artificial Intelligence application provides book recommendations requested by users DUBLIN, Ohio, 21 June 2023
https://www.oclc.org/en/news/releases/2023/20230621-ai-book-recs-worldcatorg.html 

AI Metadata Assistant Headlines Alma’s February 2025 Feature Release February 03, 2025
https://exlibrisgroup.com/announcement/ai-metadata-assistant-headlines-almas-february-2025-feature-release/

Ex Libris unveils AI Metadata Assistant and new features in Alma’s February 2025 release. February 5, 2025
https://www.knowledgespeak.com/news/ex-libris-unveils-ai-metadata-assistant-and-new-features-in-almas-february-2025-release/