Use of Artificial Intelligence in Libraries and Information Centers: Global and Indian Perspectives

Journal of Research and Development Peer Reviewed International, Open Access Journal. ISSN : 2230-9578 | Website: https://jrdrvb.org Volume-17, Issue-10(II)| October2025 22 Use of Artificial Intelligence in Libraries and Information Centers: Global and Indian Perspectives Rahul Deomare1, Ranjeet Shinde2, Dr Ashok sonone3 1,2Research Scholar 3Research guide Email[email protected]m Manuscript ID: JRD -2025-171007 ISSN: 2230-9578 Volume 17 Issue 10(II) Pp. 22-25 October 2025 Submitted: 18 Sept. 2025 Revised: 29 Sept. 2025 Accepted: 10 Oct. 2025 Published: 31 Oct. 2025 Abstract This paper reviews the current and emerging uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in libraries and information centers, combining global reports and surveys (IFLA, ARL, ALA/PLA, OCLC) with Indianspecific sources (INFLIBNET, DELNET). It presents facts and figures in table format, analyzes benefits and ethical challenges, and provides policy and training recommendations for libraries seeking to integrate AI responsibly. Key quantitative findings are drawn from ARL polls (2023), PLA 2023 Public Library Technology Survey, and institutional reports and brochures from Indian networks. Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) — including machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), and generative models — is reshaping how knowledge is organized, discovered, and delivered. Libraries and information centers are exploring AI for cataloging, metadata enrichment, virtual reference, discovery, accessibility, and user education. This paper synthesizes global and Indian evidence to provide an actionable overview for library leaders, practitioners, and policymakers. Literature Review Major library bodies and research groups have published guidance and survey results on AI in libraries. The IFLA Trend Report (2024) identifies AI transforming society as a core trend, urging libraries to prepare for shifts in trust and skills. The Association of Research Libraries (ARL) conducted two polls in 2023 showing rapid evolution in attitudes and planning for AI in research libraries. The American Library Association (ALA) and Public Library Association (PLA) report on public library technology capacity and preparedness (PLA Technology Survey, 2023). Indian networks such as INFLIBNET and DELNET have discussed AI implications for academic and networked libraries, and DELNET materials indicate provision of access to emerging AI tools. Applications of AI in Libraries Common AI applications include: 1. Automated Cataloging and Metadata Generation AI and machine learning algorithms can analyze bibliographic data, full texts, and digital resources to automatically create or enhance metadata records. This automation reduces human effort in cataloging, minimizes errors, and speeds up processing of large digital collections. Systems like OCLC’s WorldCat leverage machine learning for subject tagging and authority control, improving consistency across library networks. 2. Enhanced OCR and Image Recognition for Digitized Collections AI-driven Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and computer vision technologies significantly improve the quality and searchability of digitized materials. They can handle low-quality scans, handwritten texts, and historical manuscripts more effectively than traditional OCR. Quick Response Code: Website: https://jrdrvb.org/ DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17464074 Creative Commons (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0) This is an open access journal, and articles are distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International Public License, which allows others to remix, tweak, and build upon the work noncommercially, as long as appropriate credit is given and the new creations ae licensed under the idential terms. Address for correspondence: Rahul Deomare,Research Scholar How to cite this article: Rahul Deomare,Ranjeet Shinde, Ashok sonone,(2025). Use of Artificial Intelligence in Libraries and Information Centers: Global and Indian Perspectives,Journal of Research & Development, 17(10(II)), 22-25 Original Article Journal of Research and Development Peer Reviewed International, Open Access Journal. ISSN : 2230-9578 | Website: https://jrdrvb.org Volume-17, Issue-10(II)| October2025 23 Advanced tools can even recognize regional scripts and languages, enabling broader access to cultural and archival collections. 3. Discovery and Recommendation Systems AI-powered discovery layers and recommender systems personalize users’ search experiences by learning from their behaviors and interests. These tools analyze metadata, usage patterns, and contextual data to suggest relevant books, articles, or digital resources. As a result, information retrieval becomes faster, more precise, and aligned with users’ academic or professional needs. 4. Virtual Reference and Chatbots Natural Language Processing (NLP)-based chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 support to library users. They can answer routine queries, guide users to resources, and offer step-by-step help with catalog searches or research databases. By automating frontline interactions, virtual reference tools free librarians to focus on complex or specialized information requests. 5. Accessibility Services (Auto-Captioning, Text Simplification) AI supports inclusive access through tools that automatically generate captions for audiovisual content and simplify complex texts for diverse readers. Libraries use such tools to make educational resources accessible to users with disabilities or limited language proficiency. These services strengthen libraries’ commitment to equity, inclusion, and universal design. 6. User Education and AI Literacy Programs Libraries increasingly act as centers for AI and digital literacy by offering workshops, tutorials, and awareness sessions. Through guided instruction, users learn to understand AI technologies, evaluate their ethical implications, and apply them responsibly in study and research. Public and academic libraries thus contribute to developing informed, AIliterate communities. Facts & Figures Source (year) Metric Statistic / Finding Notes ARL Polls (April & Dec 2023) Libraries actively implementing generative AI (Dec 2023) 12% Shift from exploring→implementing: Dec 2023 results show 12% actively implementing; 60% exploring. (ARL, 2024) ARL Polls (April & Dec 2023) Libraries exploring potential AI applications (Dec 2023) 60% Indicates active exploration across research libraries. (ARL, 2024) PLA Technology Survey (2023) Public libraries offering digital literacy training 95% Most U.S. public libraries report offering some form of digital literacy training. (PLA, 2024) PLA Technology Survey (2023) Libraries with digital media production equipment 24.6% overall City libraries: 58.9%; Suburban: 38.2%; Town/Rural: 18%. (PLA, 2024) IFLA Trend Report (2024) IFLA key trend related to AI AI transforming society; renegotiation of trust Qualitative trend guidance for global libraries. (IFLA, 2024) ALA (Center for the Future of Libraries) Guidance & advocacy on AI literacy Multiple initiatives and resources ALA highlights role of libraries in AI literacy and ethical integration. (ALA, 2024-25) The data from Table 1 show a clear trend of growing interest and gradual adoption of AI in libraries worldwide. While only about 12% of ARL libraries were actively implementing generative AI as of December 2023, a much larger proportion (60%) were exploring its potential. This indicates that AI adoption is still in an experimental phase for most research libraries. Public libraries, as reflected in the PLA 2023 survey, focus heavily on digital literacy, with 95% offering related programs, suggesting that AI literacy could be naturally integrated. IFLA’s qualitative guidance Journal of Research and Development Peer Reviewed International, Open Access Journal. ISSN : 2230-9578 | Website: https://jrdrvb.org Volume-17, Issue-10(II)| October2025 24 emphasizes the societal transformation potential of AI and the importance of building trust with patrons. Overall, global libraries are at a transition point, balancing innovation with ethical and operational considerations. Table 2: India-specific indicators and institutional facts Indian libraries are gradually engaging with AI through networks such as DELNET and INFLIBNET. Table 2 highlights that approximately 9,500 institutions are connected through DELNET, providing access to emerging AI tools and resources. While structured quantitative adoption data are limited, INFLIBNET’s 2019 CALIBER paper suggests growing interest in pilot AI projects within academic libraries. National digitization initiatives further strengthen the ecosystem for AI-enabled services. These figures indicate that Indian libraries are preparing infrastructure and institutional readiness, but systematic tracking of AI adoption and impact is still required to measure progress effectively. Table 3 synthesizes key advantages and potential risks of AI integration. Benefits include automation of routine tasks, improved discovery and recommendations, and 24/7 virtual reference services, which collectively enhance operational efficiency and user experience. However, challenges such as algorithmic bias, transparency issues, privacy concerns, and limited staff capacity underline that AI adoption is not without risk. In particular, the coverage of regional languages in OCR, accuracy of auto-generated metadata, and equitable access are critical for Indian and multicultural library contexts. The table underscores the need for libraries to implement structured evaluation and mitigation strategies alongside technological deployment. Integrated Analysis: Combining insights from all three tables, the evidence suggests that AI adoption is accelerating globally but remains uneven. Research libraries are experimenting with generative AI, while public libraries focus on digital and AI literacy. Indian libraries are in the early stages, emphasizing infrastructure and training. Across contexts, there is a clear need for Source (year) Metric Statistic / Finding Notes DELNET brochure (2025) Institutions in DELNET network ~9,500 institutions DELNET connects universities, colleges, R&D organizations across India; brochure notes provision of emerging AI tools access. (DELNET, 2025) INFLIBNET CALIBER paper (2019) AI prospects in academic libraries Qualitative: growing interest and pilot projects Survey/overview of AI applications in Indian academic libraries; recommends capacity building. (INFLIBNET, 2019) Indian national developments (news 2025) INFLIBNET expansion & digitization initiatives Active national-level digitization & eresource programs Government & INFLIBNET initiatives to strengthen digital resources for universities; supports AI-readiness indirectly. (News/INFLIBNET, 2025) Benefits Representative evidence / metric Challenges / Risks Automation of routine tasks (cataloging, metadata) ARL & OCLC case examples; time savings reported in case studies Bias in training data; accuracy issues in autogenerated metadata Improved discovery & recommendations User experience improvements in pilot systems (reported qualitatively) Opaque algorithms; privacy risks in personalized services 24/7 virtual reference (chatbots) ARL & PLA references to chatbots & virtual assistants Quality control; need for AI literacy to evaluate responses Enhanced OCR and access to digitized collections Technological improvements reported by OCLC / academic projects OCR errors in historical documents; languages and scripts coverage (Indian languages are a concern) Community AI literacy programs PLA & ALA recommendations; ARL training frameworks Resource & staff training capacity; funding constraints Journal of Research and Development Peer Reviewed International, Open Access Journal. ISSN : 2230-9578 | Website: https://jrdrvb.org Volume-17, Issue-10(II)| October2025 25 policy frameworks, staff development, and continuous evaluation to maximize benefits while minimizing ethical, legal, and operational risks. Analysis and Discussion The data show that while a minority of libraries have moved to active implementation (e.g., ~12% among ARL respondents in Dec 2023), a majority are actively exploring AI use-cases (ARL: 60% exploring in Dec 2023). Public libraries prioritize digital literacy and access (PLA: 95% provide some digital literacy training), which positions them well to include AI literacy. In India, networks such as DELNET and INFLIBNET are building infrastructure that can help libraries access AI tools, but comprehensive national statistics on AI adoption by Indian libraries are limited and merit systematic study. Ethical, Legal, and Practical Challenges Key concerns include algorithmic bias, transparency, data privacy (patron confidentiality), copyright issues around AI training data and generated outputs, and the digital divide (unequal access to AI-enhanced services between urban and rural libraries). ARL and IFLA recommend transparent governance frameworks and AI literacy initiatives to mitigate risks. Recommendations Based on the evidence, libraries should: 1. Develop clear AI policies addressing privacy, transparency, and accountability (draw on ARL guiding principles). 2. Invest in staff training and AI literacy programs for patrons (use PLA/ALA frameworks). 3. Pilot AI applications with evaluation metrics (accuracy, equity, impact on services). 4. Prefer open-source or transparent AI tools where feasible and document use cases for community benefit. 5. For Indian libraries: leverage networks (DELNET, INFLIBNET) for shared infrastructure and collaborative pilots. Conclusion AI offers transformative potential for libraries but requires careful, ethical, and context-sensitive implementation. Global surveys indicate broad interest and active exploration, while Indian networks show institutional readiness to support AI adoption. Libraries that combine pragmatic pilots, staff training, and transparent governance will be best placed to harness AI for improved access, discovery, and learning. References. 1. Association of Research Libraries. 2024. Evolving AI Strategies in Libraries: Insights from Two Polls of ARL Member Representatives over Nine Months. ARL. 2. International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). 2024. IFLA Trend Report 2024. IFLA. 3. Public Library Association (PLA). 2024. 2023 Public Library Technology Survey: Summary Report. ALA/PLA. 4. American Library Association. 2024-2025. Artificial Intelligence | Center for the Future of Libraries. ALA. 5. DELNET. 2025. DELNET brochure: Access to Emerging AI Tools & Technologies for Libraries and Researchers. DELNET. 6. INFLIBNET Centre. 2019. Gujral, Garima et al., Perceptions and Prospects of Artificial Intelligence Technologies for Academic Libraries: An Overview of Global Trends. INFLIBNET.