- The American Library Association (ALA) has been actively engaging with the potential and challenges of generative AI in libraries. The ALA recognizes the transformative potential of AI technologies, including generative AI, in enhancing library services such as research support, collection management, outreach, and more. It views AI as a tool that can help libraries improve accessibility and user engagement by automating tasks, generating content, and personalizing services.
However, the ALA also emphasizes the need to address critical ethical concerns. These include issues of information integrity, copyright, privacy, misinformation, and the social impacts of AI on library operations and education. The association has launched discussions, webinars, and conferences to explore the risks and opportunities of integrating AI into libraries, ensuring that AI technologies align with libraries' core mission of equitable access to knowledge​.
ALA's specific interest groups, such as the Core Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Libraries Interest Group, focus on educating librarians about AI, critically examining its applications, and addressing the ethical challenges posed by AI technologies​.
