Beijing Welcomes Sino-Russian Librarian Exchange on AI
In the historic city of Beijing, librarians from China and Russia convened for the second installment of the Sino-Russian Library Forum, focusing on the pioneering integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in library services. This two-day event, hosted conjointly by the National Library of China and the Russian State Library, underscored the importance of digital transformation in libraries not as a trend, but as a crucial component for their success.
The General Manager of the Russian State Library, Vadim Duda, predicted an exponential increase in library documents, anticipating a richer diversity in format. Consequently, there’s an emerging need for more sophisticated categorization and organization of these materials, a process where AI technology is expected to play a pivotal role.
Chen Liang, Deputy Director of the National Library of China, shared his vision regarding the future of library services. As user demands grow more varied and complex, it is imperative to leverage advanced technologies to expand informational resources, revitalize service methods, and refine the user experience. Through collaboration with their Russian counterparts, the aim is to broaden perspectives, stimulate innovation, and offer both nations’ people a wide array of enriching experiences.
Following the successful inaugural forum in Moscow last July, this forum marks another milestone in the increasingly dynamic cultural exchange between Chinese and Russian libraries.
AI Transforming Libraries: Gains and Challenges Explored at Sino-Russian Forum
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in library services has been gaining momentum across the globe, a phenomenon further explored at the Sino-Russian Library Forum held in Beijing. This collaborative event reiterated the commitment to embracing advanced technology to improve library services and addressed the necessity to manage a growing and diversifying library inventory.
Key Questions and Insights:
- How can AI enhance library services?
AI can provide sophisticated cataloging and search functions, personalized recommendations, virtual assistance, and streamlined administrative processes. - What are the expected outcomes?
The deployment of AI aims to enrich the user experience, modernize service methods, and efficiently handle large volumes of varied formats.
Challenges and Controversies:
While the potential benefits of AI in libraries are substantial, challenges include ensuring data privacy, mitigating biases in AI algorithms, maintaining the relevance of human librarians, and securing the considerable funding required for digital transformation.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages include improved accessibility and convenience for users, more effective data management, and the enhancement of library services through technology. However, disadvantages involve issues like the digital divide, job displacement concerns, and the preservation of human judgment and personalized service that technology may not fully replicate.
Suggested related links include reputable sources of information on library technology advances and cultural exchange:
– International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
– AI for Good
– UNESCO
In summary, the Sino-Russian Library Forum showcased the shared aspirations to employ AI in advancing the efficiency and quality of library services, while providing a platform for addressing the significant technical and ethical considerations of such advancements.