Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI): 8 Key Questions for Libraries and the Need to Implement AI Labs

Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) is transforming sectors such as education and information management. Academic libraries, as knowledge hubs, face the task of integrating this technology in an ethical and effective manner. Bridges et al. (2024) , in their article Generative Artificial Intelligence: 8 Critical Questions for Libraries , raise key questions that libraries should consider when adopting Gen AI. In this blog, we explore these questions and underscore the importance of establishing AI labs and encouraging the teaching of this technology in libraries to better prepare librarians and the academic community.

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Below, we explore each of these questions, highlighting their importance and how they can guide libraries in the responsible implementation of Gen AI.

1. What is Gen AI and why should libraries care?

Gen AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content, such as text, images, and sounds, based on patterns learned from large volumes of existing data. Tools such as ChatGPT are examples of Gen AI that can produce contextual responses and craft coherent text from user input. For academic libraries, understanding and evaluating these technologies is crucial because they can transform the way information is accessed, organized, and distributed. Gen AI can be used to develop more advanced book recommendation systems, improve information search through automated summaries, or even generate personalized educational materials. However, these applications also bring with them ethical concerns, such as the quality of the source data and potential bias in the responses generated (Bridges et al., 2024).

2. How can libraries make informed decisions without giving in to urgency?

With technology advancing rapidly, there is constant pressure to adopt the latest innovations. However, libraries must exercise caution and make informed decisions when integrating AI. This means not giving in to commercial urgency and instead taking an evidence-based and ethical approach. Libraries should implement an evaluation process that includes pilot testing, impact analysis, and a critical review of associated benefits and risks. Additionally, they should consider feedback from users and staff, ensuring that any new technology truly serves the needs of their community. By maintaining a critical and balanced perspective, libraries can avoid hasty adoption of technologies that might not be suitable in the long term (Bridges et al., 2024) .

3. How can libraries align their use of Gen AI with their ethical values?

Libraries have historically been advocates of principles such as privacy, intellectual freedom, and equitable access to information. The integration of Gen AI into library services must respect and reinforce these values. Libraries must actively question the data sources that feed AI models, ensuring that they do not perpetuate biases or violate users’ privacy. Furthermore, it is crucial that libraries engage in the development of policies and guidelines that ensure ethical use of AI, protecting both users and the integrity of information. In doing so, libraries not only embrace new technologies, but also position themselves as guardians of ethical values in the digital age (Bridges et al., 2024).

4. What policies currently exist and how do they affect libraries?

Policies on AI are constantly developing and vary significantly across different jurisdictions. Currently, many of these policies do not specifically address the role of libraries, leaving a gap in the regulation of how these institutions can use AI. However, these policies have a direct impact on key aspects such as privacy, intellectual property and access to information. Libraries should be aware of local, national and international regulations that could affect their use of AI, and advocate for legal frameworks that reflect the values and needs of the library sector. Engaging in the debate on these policies and collaborating with organizations and experts in the field is essential to ensure that libraries can adopt AI in ways that benefit their users without compromising their rights (Bridges et al., 2024).

5. How can libraries support staff and users’ exploration of AI tools?

For libraries to be able to effectively support their users in using AI tools, it is critical that staff are well trained. This includes not only understanding the basic functions of the tools, but also developing advanced skills such as prompt engineering (the ability to design inputs that generate the most useful responses) and detecting bias in the responses generated. Libraries can establish ongoing training programs and create spaces where staff and users can experiment with these technologies. Additionally, it is important for libraries to stay up to date with the latest developments in AI so that they can offer relevant advice and resources to their community (Bridges et al., 2024).

6. How does AI fit into information literacy instruction?

Gen AI poses new challenges and opportunities in information literacy. As these tools become more accessible, it is essential for libraries to teach users to critically evaluate AI-generated information. This includes understanding how these models work, recognizing their limitations and biases, and developing skills to verify the accuracy and reliability of information. Integrating AI literacy into library educational programs is crucial to ensure that users not only consume information, but are also able to interact with it critically and responsibly. (Bridges et al., 2024).

7. How can libraries lead conversations and collaborate in AI adoption?

Libraries have a unique role in leading discussions about the ethical use of Gen AI within their institutions and communities. To do so effectively, libraries must build partnerships with other university departments, organizations, and technology experts. These collaborations can help libraries influence how AI is adopted in a broader context, ensuring that decisions reflect the library’s core values. Furthermore, leading these conversations positions libraries as hubs of innovation and ethics in the digital age, which can strengthen their role in the academic community and beyond (Bridges et al., 2024).

8. What's next for libraries in the context of AI?

AI development is dynamic and will continue to evolve at a rapid pace. Libraries must be prepared to adapt to these changes by actively engaging in discussions about the use of AI and adopting technologies that truly add value to their services. This requires a proactive approach and a continuous learning mindset. Libraries must be willing to explore new tools, assess their impact, and adjust them as needed to better serve their users. Staying ahead of these developments will enable libraries to not only survive in a digital environment, but also thrive as leaders in information management and education (Bridges et al., 2024).

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The Need to Implement Gen AI Labs in and for Libraries

Critical questions about implementing Gen AI in libraries underscore the importance of academic libraries carefully understanding and evaluating these technologies before adopting them. Gen AI has the potential to transform information management, but its implementation requires deep and critical understanding. AI labs offer an ideal environment for libraries to experiment with these technologies, pilot test them, and analyze their impact without external pressure. This ensures that any decision about adopting AI is based on solid knowledge and aligned with the library’s core values, such as privacy and equity.

Furthermore, the creation of AI labs is essential for the development of policies and guidelines that ensure responsible and ethical use of AI in libraries. The alignment of AI with ethical values and the need for ongoing staff training reinforce the importance of having a space where these issues can be systematically addressed. In these labs, library staff can acquire the skills necessary to use AI effectively and ethically, while libraries can lead the development of policies that protect users’ rights and promote equitable access to information.

The creation of AI labs is essential for the development of policies and guidelines that ensure responsible and ethical use of AI in libraries.

Finally, when considering the future of libraries and their role in information literacy, it reinforces the idea that AI labs are a strategic investment for libraries that want to stay at the forefront of technological innovation. These labs would allow libraries to not only adapt to technological changes, but also lead in the creation of new teaching methodologies and in inter-institutional collaboration. By establishing AI labs, libraries can ensure that they are prepared to face future challenges and remain leaders in knowledge management and distribution.

Conclusion

Academic libraries are at a crossroads where the integration of AI can redefine their role in knowledge management and distribution. The creation of AI labs is essential to ensure that these technologies are adopted ethically and effectively, respecting the core values of privacy, equity, and access to information. These labs will not only facilitate rigorous assessment and ongoing training, but will also position libraries as leaders in technological innovation. By investing in these spaces, libraries ensure that they are prepared to meet the challenges of the future, staying relevant and effective in their educational mission.

Reference

Bridges, L.M., McElroy, K., & Welhouse, Z. (2024). Generative Artificial Intelligence: 8 Critical Questions for Libraries . Journal of Library Administration, 64(1), 66-79. https://doi.org/10.1080/01930826.2024.2292484