Use of Generative AI in Aiding Daily Professional Tasks: A Survey of Librarians’ Experiences

Publication Date

2-1-2025

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Library Trends

Volume

73

Issue

3

DOI

10.1353/lib.2025.a961200

First Page

381

Last Page

398

Abstract

This study examines how librarians are using third-party generative AI (GAI) tools such as ChatGPT to aid their daily professional tasks. An online survey of 272 librarians found that text-generating AI tools were the most popular. The majority of respondents felt that GAI tools were effective in improving productivity. Key challenges included ensuring content accuracy and designing effective prompts. Top suggestions for better preparing librarians to use GAI include practical training on using GAI, establishing AI policies and guidelines, fostering collaboration and communities of practice, and providing access to useful GAI resources. The study highlights popular use cases that can inform professional development, while underscoring the need for hands-on training, institutional policies, opportunities to experiment with GAI, and access to enhanced tools. As GAI evolves, supporting librarians’ adoption will be crucial for harnessing its potential benefits.

Keywords

artificial intelligence, generative AI, librarian, library, productivity

Department

Information

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS