Checking out AI: University library puts emerging technology to the test
In a meeting room at the C. V. Starr East Asian Library, a Chinese film poster flickers onto a large screen. Haiqing Lin, the library's head of technical services, is demonstrating an interface he built. With a few practiced clicks, he sends the image—one of 2,000 posters from th
The use of AI in libraries is an emerging trend that has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with and access information. By testing and implementing AI-powered interfaces, like the one built by Haiqing Lin at the C. V. Starr East Asian Library, librarians can improve the discovery and exploration of their collections. This technology can help users quickly locate relevant materials, and provide new insights into the content and context of library holdings.
The application of AI in libraries also speaks to a broader trend in the cultural heritage sector, where institutions are increasingly turning to emerging technologies to enhance the preservation, curation, and accessibility of their collections. As AI continues to evolve and improve, we can expect to see more libraries and museums experimenting with AI-powered tools and interfaces to support research, education, and community engagement. The work being done at the C. V. Starr East Asian Library is an important example of how AI can be used to support the discovery and analysis of cultural materials.
As libraries and cultural institutions continue to explore the potential of AI, it's worth watching how these technologies are evaluated and refined. Key questions to consider include: How will AI-powered interfaces be assessed for their effectiveness and usability? What are the implications for collection development, preservation, and access? And how will librarians and researchers work together to ensure that AI-powered tools are meeting the needs of diverse user communities? By monitoring these developments, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role that AI will play in shaping the future of libraries and cultural heritage institutions.
Originally reported by phys.org. NewsData adds analysis for science & discovery readers.