Authors: Dr. Vinod Kumar
Abstract: This paper examines the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the core functions of digital libraries. It argues that AI is fundamentally reshaping these institutions by introducing unprecedented efficiency and user-centric services. The analysis focuses on two primary areas: the automation of traditional, labor-intensive tasks such as intelligent cataloging, metadata generation, and advanced digitization using machine learningand the enablement of sophisticated personalization through AI-powered recommender systems, intelligent semantic search, and conversational chatbots. Moving beyond these applications, the paper also explores emerging frontiers, including the use of AI for predictive analytics in collection development and as a tool for accelerating academic research. However, this technological shift is not without significant challenges. The study provides a critical analysis of pressing ethical concerns, such as the risks of algorithmic bias perpetuating inequality, threats to patron data privacy, and the potential for AI to widen the digital divide. The paper concludes that while AI offers remarkable opportunities for enhancing efficiency, accessibility, and user engagement, a strong, principled ethical framework and a committed human-centred approach to ensure the creation of equitable, trustworthy, and sustainable digital knowledge environments must guide its successful integration into digital libraries for all.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17608694
