From Digitisation To Remote Access: 5 Ways How AI Is Changing Libraries

AI is transforming libraries by enhancing their ability to provide personalised services and efficiently manage vast amounts of data.

AI can help improve accessibility for patrons.

As technology continues to advance, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming many aspects of our lives, including libraries. In India, libraries have always been considered a source of knowledge and resources, but with the integration of AI, they are becoming more than just a place to borrow books. The user experience of digital libraries is being significantly improved by AI by making personalised recommendations, automating repetitive chores, and improving resource search and discovery. 

Additionally, AI-driven chatbots are also being utilised to improve user experience and offer immediate support. 

The Indian government has recognised the potential of AI in libraries and has taken measures to incorporate it into the library system. The Ministry of Culture launched the National Digital Library of India (NDLI) in 2019, which is a digital platform providing access to millions of e-books, e-journals, and other digital resources to users throughout the country. 

Along with these resources, the NDLI is also equipped with AI-powered features that include content recommendations and intelligent search capabilities. 

The shift towards digital libraries in India is driven by the increasing demand for online resources and the numerous benefits they offer over traditional libraries, such as greater accessibility and scalability. As a result, libraries in India must continue to incorporate AI and other digital technologies to better serve their users and remain competitive in the digital era. 

Here is how AI is changing libraries and why digital libraries are the future: 

Recommendation System 

The emergence of AI-powered search engines has revolutionised the way people search for information in libraries. With advanced Natural Language Processing algorithms, search engines can now comprehend complex queries, providing users with accurate and relevant results. In India, where there are more than 54,000 public libraries, the use of AI in search and discovery can significantly improve patrons' access to information.  

AI-powered recommendation systems have also enhanced the discovery of resources in libraries by analysing a user's search history and providing personalised suggestions for books, articles, or other relevant resources. Overall, the integration of AI in libraries has the potential to make information access more efficient and effective. 

Personalised Learning 

AI integration in libraries offers personalised learning opportunities for patrons through customised learning paths. By analysing a patron's reading history, AI-powered systems can create personalised reading lists based on their interests.  

According to a report by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India, there are over 993 universities and 39,931 colleges in India, and AI-powered personalised learning systems can greatly benefit students in accessing educational resources effectively. AI can also assist with language learning by providing real-time feedback on pronunciation, facilitating faster and more effective language skill improvement for patrons. 

Digitisation & Preservation 

The preservation and conservation of cultural heritage are being revolutionised by AI. AI algorithms can find the best preservation methods to stop the deterioration and damage of physical items like books, manuscripts, and artwork because of their capacity to analyse enormous amounts of data rapidly and precisely.  

Additionally, with the aid of this technology, it is possible to create digital archives that can be accessed by scholars and enthusiasts everywhere, preserving and disseminating knowledge for future generations. AI can also assist in identifying possible threats to cultural heritage, such as theft or natural catastrophes, allowing authorities to take preventative action. AI can help make preservation and conservation activities more effective, efficient, and long-lasting, protecting our cultural heritage for years to come. 

Improved Accessibility 

AI is also improving accessibility for patrons. For example, AI-powered systems can provide text-to-speech functionality for visually impaired patrons. AI can also help with translation services, allowing patrons to access information in their native language. 

Additionally, AI can help with accessibility by improving the usability of library websites and online resources. AI-powered chatbots can provide support and answer questions for patrons, improving the overall user experience. 

Remote Access 

AI is driving the shift towards digital libraries in India. Digital libraries have many advantages over physical libraries, including increased accessibility, flexibility, and scalability. With digital libraries, patrons can access information from anywhere at any time. 

According to the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the National Digital Library of India currently has over 4.4 million books and documents available online and is constantly adding to its collection. With the help of AI-driven innovations and advancements, digital libraries can become an even more essential resource for education, research, and learning in the country. 

AI is transforming libraries by enhancing their ability to provide personalised services and efficiently manage vast amounts of data. The implementation of AI technologies has facilitated the creation of digital libraries, which offer access to a broad range of resources from anywhere, at any time. Digital libraries offer a wealth of benefits, including greater accessibility, improved search capabilities, and enhanced preservation of cultural heritage. 

As the world continues to embrace digital transformation, digital libraries are the future, and their importance will only continue to grow in the years to come. 

(The author is the CEO of Knimbus)

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