Saturday, 14 October 2023

Workshop on Artificial Intelligence and Libraries: Implications and Applications" organized by Indira Gandhi Institute of Development and Research (IGIDR), Mumbai


(Photo Courtesy: IGIDR)

I consider myself very fortunate to have participated in today’s mesmerizing workshop!

The workshop on "Artificial Intelligence and Libraries: Implications and Applications" organized by Indira Gandhi Institute of Development and Research (IGIDR) gathered professionals from the library and information science field to delve deep into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and explore its present landscape and future applications in libraries. The event focused on generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, Bing Chat, DALL-E, and Scopus AI, as well as AI-enabled research tools. This report provides a summary of the key insights and discussions from the workshop, emphasizing the potential of AI to transform library operations, services, and knowledge management.

1. AI in Libraries: Landscape and Future

The workshop began with an overview of the current state of AI in libraries. Participants discussed the rapid advancement of AI technologies and their relevance in libraries.

The future of AI in libraries was explored, considering its implications for resource discovery, user engagement, and data-driven decision-making.

2. Generative AI and Libraries by 

ChatGPT/Google Bard: Participants gained insights into the use of conversational AI for enhancing user experiences, enabling quick responses to queries, and guiding users through library resources.

Bing Chat: The potential of Bing Chat in providing instant, AI-driven support to library users was highlighted, along with its ability to enhance user media literacy.

Stable Diffusion/Bing Image Generator (DALL-E): The workshop discussed how tools like DALL-E can revolutionize content creation and visualization, making library operations more efficient and user-centric.

3. Scopus AI: Change the Way You View Knowledge

Participants explored how AI, particularly in the context of Scopus AI, is poised to change the way knowledge is indexed, searched, and accessed in library databases.

The workshop emphasized the importance of libraries adapting to these changes and leveraging AI technologies to enhance their services and support research activities.

4. AI-enabled Research Tools

The workshop provided an opportunity to delve into AI-enabled research tools that have the potential to revolutionize research endeavors in libraries.

Participants discussed the skills needed to effectively utilize these tools, both for their own research and for educating and empowering library users.

To conclude….

The "AI in Libraries" workshop facilitated a deep dive into the evolving landscape of AI in libraries. It highlighted the promising future of AI, focusing on generative AI tools and AI-enabled research platforms. The event emphasized the importance of adapting to these technologies to improve library operations, provide better services, and support research activities effectively.

Participants left the workshop with a greater understanding of how AI tools like ChatGPT, Bing Chat, DALL-E, and Scopus AI can be harnessed to enhance their libraries. The knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop will be instrumental in staying at the forefront of library services and research support in the age of AI. Future workshops and initiatives were proposed to ensure ongoing education and collaboration in this dynamic field.