By Matt Enis, Adapted by AVC Technology
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping industries, and the library sector is no exception. Richard Baldwin, an economist from the Geneva Graduate Institute, encapsulates the current sentiment: “AI won’t take your job. It’s somebody using AI that will take your job.” As AI becomes more prevalent, it’s essential for Indiana library directors to understand how these tools can enhance their operations and how partnering with an IT service provider like AVC can help them stay ahead.
Embracing AI: Lessons from Industry Leaders
At Ulysses Press, CEO Keith Riegert encourages his staff to integrate AI into their daily tasks. He emphasizes the importance of familiarizing oneself with AI tools, urging his team to use AI for at least an hour each day. Whether it’s drafting emails or brainstorming ideas, the goal is to build a habit and stay updated as these tools evolve. This proactive approach is a key lesson for libraries—AI can significantly enhance productivity, but only if embraced and understood.
Similarly, OverDrive, a familiar name in the library world, has been integrating AI into its workflows for years. Steve Potash, OverDrive’s president and CEO, highlights the comprehensive use of AI across their teams, from development to product management. For instance, the AI-powered Libby chatbot has reduced support tickets by over 30%, demonstrating AI’s potential to streamline operations and improve patron services. Libraries can take inspiration from this by considering how AI might be used to manage routine tasks, allowing staff to focus on more complex and creative work.
AI Enhancing Library Services
Libraries are uniquely positioned to leverage AI in ways that directly benefit patrons. OverDrive’s use of AI to analyze transactional data is a prime example. By understanding the lifecycle of a title, libraries can better manage their collections, balancing various licensing models to maximize their budgets. For Indiana libraries, this could mean more effective resource allocation, ensuring that patrons have timely access to the materials they need.
Another notable example comes from OCLC, which has used AI to significantly reduce delivery times in its WorldShare Interlibrary Loan (ILL) network. By analyzing transaction data and optimizing routes, OCLC has cut average delivery times by half for electronic resources. This level of efficiency could be a game-changer for Indiana libraries, especially in rural areas where access to physical resources can be limited.
How AVC Can Help
Navigating the complexities of AI integration can be daunting, but this is where AVC can step in. As an experienced IT service provider, we understand the unique challenges that Indiana libraries face. Our team can help you evaluate and implement AI tools that align with your library’s goals, ensuring that your technology is up-to-date and effectively utilized. Whether it’s enhancing your library’s digital services, optimizing back-end operations, or providing staff training on new AI tools, AVC is here to support your journey into the future of library services.
Responsible AI: A Cautious Approach
While the potential of AI is vast, it’s crucial to approach its implementation responsibly. As Scott Livingston of OCLC notes, AI should not be adopted just for the sake of innovation. The tools must be reliable and ethically developed, especially when they are user-facing. Companies like EBSCO and Clarivate are leading the way in this regard, establishing guiding principles for the responsible use of AI to ensure that these tools enhance rather than hinder the user experience.
For Indiana libraries, this means being selective about the AI tools they adopt, prioritizing those that have been rigorously tested and proven to deliver reliable results. It also means staying informed about the ethical considerations surrounding AI, ensuring that these tools are used to benefit all patrons fairly and equitably.
Looking Ahead
As AI continues to evolve, it will bring both opportunities and challenges to the library sector. The key for Indiana libraries will be to stay informed, embrace the tools that can genuinely enhance their services, and work with trusted partners like AVC to navigate this rapidly changing landscape. By doing so, libraries can not only keep pace with technological advancements but also continue to serve as vital community resources in an increasingly digital world.