AI in Libraries: Trends and Future Perspective among Library Professionals in Kamrup, Assam

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence has the potential to augment library operations, boost accessibility, and facilitate decision-making. But AI's applicability and utilization around the globe are still in their infancy. This study attempts to investigate trends and perspectives of library professionals from Kamrup, Assam, an area in Northeast India, in light of the recent technological advancements in the field of libraries. The study intends to investigate personnel/ staff knowledge, awareness, and opinions on AI and its associated difficulties and potential. Setting dimensions across different library types, ranging from academic to highly research driven organizations, the study uses a quantitative methodology, gathering information from 36 library professionals across a range of library disciplines using a mixture of closed-ended targets, and ending with an open-ended question offering richer insights and firsthand account of AI in libraries. A number of topics are covered in the study, such as socio demographic data, AI expertise, perspectives and trends about AI in libraries, ethical issues, and implementing AI services and tools. Results show professionals are cognizant of AI and its possible applications in libraries. They think artificial intelligence can help with decision-making, increase accessibility, and improve library activities. AI replacing human intellect in libraries, however, raises certain issues. It is important to consider factors including staff skills, finance, user privacy, and training related to AI deployment. Other important considerations are those of ethics, which include prejudice and discrimination, intellectual freedom, and transparency. Assam libraries are adopting a few current developments, such as virtual assistance, chat bots, voice recognition, image recognition, and OCR technology.