Embracing Conversational AI Agents: The Agentic Future of Libraries

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Computers in Libraries

Publication Date

9-2024

Abstract

The article Embracing Conversational AI Agents: The Agentic Future of Libraries explores the transformative role of conversational AI in modern library services through the case study of Aisha, a cutting-edge AI agent developed by Zayed University Library in Dubai. Aisha leverages generative AI, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and external tool integration to provide dynamic, multilingual, and accessible support to library users. The authors detail Aisha’s technical development, which incorporates the ChatGPT API, LangChain framework, Chroma vector database, and Streamlit interface. Highlighting features such as voice capabilities, multimodal interaction, and a custom knowledge base, the article emphasizes Aisha’s ability to enhance user engagement, promote information literacy, and improve access to library resources.

The discussion also addresses the challenges encountered, including hallucinations, data quality, API limits, and memory constraints, alongside solutions and ongoing improvements. Future development plans for Aisha include long-term memory, animated avatars, expanded services, and personalized user support. The article concludes with a call for libraries worldwide to adopt conversational AI agents to modernize services, optimize user experience, and foster collaboration. Aisha’s success at Zayed University demonstrates the immense potential of integrating AI into libraries to support both users and librarians in navigating today’s information-rich environment.

ISSN

10417915

Publisher

Information Today

Volume

44

Issue

7

First Page

36

Last Page

40

Disciplines

Library and Information Science

Keywords

Conversational AI, Library Technology, Generative AI, ChatGPT API, Information Retrieval, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Multilingual AI, Knowledge Management, Library Services Innovation, Artificial Intelligence in Libraries, User Engagement, Information Literacy, AI Assistant Development, Digital Transformation in Libraries, AI-Powered Library Services

Scopus ID

https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85205107025&partnerID=40&md5=b194647b3e26c3fdeddbcb0a1694a037

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

yes

Open Access Type

Hybrid: This publication is openly available in a subscription-based journal/series

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS