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Patrons visiting a specific library in Tokyo were welcomed by a sign that stated, “Try the ‘AI (artificial intelligence) librarian!’” But what exactly is an AI librarian?

Library staff are responsible for gathering, arranging, and maintaining books in city and school libraries. They also assist readers in locating books and resources they need or might be interested in, although artificial intelligence is becoming more common in place of human staff for these tasks online. The Mainichi Shimbun briefly addresses some questions readers might have regarding the application of AI in libraries.

Question: What is the process of interacting with an AI librarian?

Answer: Individuals who went to Nakanohigashi Library in Tokyo’s Nakano Ward during September or October had the opportunity to engage with “Shiori the AI Librarian,” an experimental female character shown on a screen. Much like a social media application, users can “converse” with Shiori by typing text. As per the technology firm that created her, this innovation is set to be implemented in libraries throughout Japan in the future.

Q: Does it differ from the search terminals currently utilized in libraries?

A: So far, the conventional method for locating books has been to search by title or author, identifying entries that contain those words. However, with Shiori, searching for “music,” for instance, would yield results like “The Fundamentals of Music Theory,” “Techniques for Playing Musical Instruments,” and “Music and Psychology.” Shiori provides recommendations based on search queries, even when they are not specific.

Q: That seems useful. Where can I give it a try?

A: AI technology is already being implemented at the Chuo Library in Kuki city, Saitama Prefecture. The company developing the system aims to lessen the burden on librarians, allowing them more time to apply their skills to other tasks or to assist library patrons. We will continue to monitor developments in this technology in the future.

(Japanese original by Kazuko Hamada, Cultural News Department)