4 October 2024
Oren Beit-Arie, SVP, Strategy & Innovation, Academia & Government, Clarivate
The rapid pace of technological advancement, in particular generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), is reshaping the landscape for all, including libraries. An Association of Research Libraries (ARL) poll earlier this year revealed that a growing number of libraries are actively implementing or exploring Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications. The Pulse of the LibraryTM report, published by Clarivate, examines current trends and future directions within the library community including but not limited to AI.
The report is based on a global survey conducted by Clarivate from April to June 2024 and involved 1,527 respondents from academic, national and public libraries. It aims to capture librarians’ perspectives as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by technologies, particularly AI. The report combines feedback from the survey with qualitative insights from interviews with librarians.
The rise of AI in libraries
One of the report’s key findings is that while libraries are in the early stages of AI implementation, there is growing interest to engage. Over 60% of respondents indicated that they are evaluating or planning for AI integration, with academic libraries leading the way. The survey also revealed that libraries see content accessibility (47% of respondents) and content discovery (44% of respondents) as areas where AI could have the most impact.
Anita Laamanen, Team Leader of eLibrary and Tools, VTT, Finland said: “Over the next five years, research librarians will leverage technologies including AI to improve access to information while maintaining a strong focus on user support, ethical practices and community engagement.”
However, more than half of respondents (52%) recognize a skills gap and anticipate the need for upskilling as the biggest impact AI will have on employment. Respondents in the U.S. show higher levels of uncertainty about AI’s impact on jobs compared to other regions, especially Mainland China. In addition, respondents from Asia and Europe are less concerned about job displacement due to AI than other regions.
Public libraries snapshot
Public libraries are grappling with unique challenges and opportunities. The survey revealed that 34% of public librarian respondents see content discovery as the area where AI could have the most significant impact on library services.
However, there is also a greater concern about job displacement due to AI among public librarians (42%) compared to their academic counterparts (31%).
The advent of AI and other advanced technologies presents an opportunity for public libraries to lead the way with implementing responsible AI by offering innovative AI-powered services.
Juliane Morian, Library Director, Rochester Hills Public Library, U.S. said: “Over the next five years I predict the container for learning will change with a shift to AI-driven video and experience-based learning, but the library’s mission to deliver lifelong learning opportunities and social connections remains unwavering and unapologetically strong.”
Regional differences
The report highlights notable regional variations in librarians’ views and priorities. For example, sustainability emerged as a key concern for librarians in Europe, while diversity and inclusion were more prominent issues for respondents in the U.S.
When it comes to open science and open access mandates, Europe was most highly affected (71%), while Mainland China and the U.S. were least affected. This would appear to correspond to the higher numbers of policies in Europe.
Harnessing the transformative power of AI
The report’s findings provide insights into the trends, concerns and potential of AI among the library community. While AI is in the early stages of implementation, it is clear there is significant interest among librarians. AI presents opportunities, but there are challenges in practical delivery, namely tight budgets, a lack of expertise and the upskilling need.
By addressing these challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented by AI, libraries can continue to play a pivotal role in advancing education, research and community engagement.
Looking ahead
The Pulse of the Library report offers a snapshot of library perspectives and is part of the ongoing dialogue between Clarivate and the library community.
By listening to their needs, gaining a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges they face, we are committed to helping libraries think forward as they navigate a world of increasing complexity.
The full survey findings are freely available to download here.