Previously, we talked about the democratisation of data and the formation of the “transparent member”, presenting libraries with new challenges but also opportunities in dealing with data. You can read the story here.
Trend 1: The democratisation of data – The Transparent Member
Today we look at how AI could change the future of work and how digitisation has already changed the way libraries operate and will continue to do so.
Trend 2: Artificial Intelligence – AI or the Intelligent Library
Artificial intelligence or AI is the attempt to transfer human thinking and learning to the computer, thereby giving it intelligence. When we talk about AI, we do not necessarily mean the robot from science fiction films that suddenly begins to feel or the computer that wants to take over the world.
AI is able to filter out the desired data from unstructured data. For example, a conventional search engine can search a document for a keyword. An AI can find out whether a specific person or object has been depicted in an image, whether that person is speaking in an audio recording or whether they are discussed in a text document. This information is not stored anywhere, but through intelligence, AI can conclude given parameters.
AI in libraries
AI can enrich the library of the future in many different ways. For example, intelligent RFID robots can take over time-consuming inventory tasks. A tedious but necessary job that can be done in a fraction of the time or simply overnight with the help of AI. Automated cataloguing processes with the help of AI as a kind of human-machine interface can divide tasks between librarians and LMS in a meaningful way.
The human factor remains indispensable for the time being. Many AI projects are still in the test phase and have too high an error rate. Nevertheless, the vision of an intelligent library of the future remains: a library that promotes innovative thinking and inventiveness by using AI to increase the availability, quality, quantity, and speed of information services.
Trend 3: Digitisation – Stay in the Competition
In an age in which information is largely accessible in electronic form, libraries, in particular, have the opportunity to digitally process existing print media, preserve them and make them accessible to their community.
Digitisation in libraries
Every library faces individual challenges when it comes to digitisation. Not only do existing collections need to be preserved, but the inclusion and representation of additional electronic media in digital form is also essential. A structured and intuitive online catalogue creates optimal access to digital media for the member and offers innovative possibilities for digital storytelling.
The respective digitisation strategy can also differ from library to library. Irrespective of whether the internal digitisation processes are ongoing or project-related, whether digitisation is done “by hand” or an external digitisation service is engaged – one aspect is certain: if the library of the future wants to continue to keep pace with global competition and the digital flood of information, this will not be possible without digitising the library.
Libero supports libraries in developing the library of the future
Libero is actively supporting libraries in developing the library of the future. A library that not only continues to provide access to information but also has the latest technology to remain relevant and meet the needs of an ever-evolving world.
Interested in how Knosys’ Libero can help you with your digitisation challenges and build the library of the future? Get in touch with our team of experts to book a consultation.
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