European Commission Proposes New AI Rules for Libraries
Brussel, vrijdag, 13 juni 2025.
The European Commission has proposed new rules for the use of AI in libraries, focusing on the labelling of AI-generated content such as deepfakes. This regulation, the first legal framework for AI in Europe, represents a crucial step in safeguarding the integrity of information in libraries and protecting users from misleading content.
New Rules for AI in Libraries
The European Commission has proposed new rules for the use of AI in libraries, focusing on the labelling of AI-generated content such as deepfakes. This regulation, the first legal framework for AI in Europe, represents a crucial step in safeguarding the integrity of information in libraries and protecting users from misleading content [1]. The rules are designed to ensure the integrity of information in libraries and protect users from misleading content, which is essential in an era where AI is finding more and more applications [1].
Applications of AI in Libraries
AI offers numerous applications in modern libraries that can significantly improve service delivery. One of the most notable applications is the AI-driven search system, which helps users quickly and efficiently find the information they need [3]. Additionally, AI-powered personal recommendations provide a specialised experience, suggesting relevant books and articles to users based on their preferences and previous searches [3]. Automatic cataloguing with AI makes the process of maintaining and organising vast collections of books and documents much more efficient [3]. Finally, digital assistants, such as chatbots, can help users with simple questions and navigating library services [3].
Enhanced Service Delivery and Challenges
The integration of AI in libraries offers significant benefits, such as improved service delivery and accessibility. AI-driven search systems can significantly reduce the time needed to evaluate articles, providing researchers and students with faster access to the required information [3]. However, these benefits also come with challenges, particularly in the areas of privacy and accessibility. Libraries must ensure that users’ personal data remains protected and that AI systems are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities [4]. Moreover, the role of library staff is changing, as they are not only information managers but also technology advisors and trainers in AI skills [3].
Practical Examples of Innovative Libraries
Several libraries have already taken innovative steps to integrate AI into their services. For example, Harvard University has made nearly a million books from the 15th century and in 254 languages available to AI researchers, a significant step in training AI systems on a diverse and extensive dataset [2]. Boston’s public library has also released large amounts of old newspapers and government documents, which is essential for historical research and AI training [2]. These initiatives demonstrate how libraries actively contribute to the development and improvement of AI technologies.
Expert Views on the Future of AI in Library Services
Experts envision a future where AI becomes an integral part of library services. Leo Lo, dean and professor at the College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences at the University of New Mexico, emphasises the importance of developing AI skills among faculty members and librarians [2]. He sees AI as a means to promote information literacy and accelerate the democratisation of knowledge. EBSCO, a major provider of information resources, has already tested and developed several AI-driven features to improve the research process and reduce the time needed to evaluate articles [3]. The results of these tests are promising and suggest that AI will play a crucial role in future library services.
Impact on Information Literacy and the Democratisation of Knowledge
The integration of AI in libraries has a significant impact on information literacy and the democratisation of knowledge. Through AI-driven search systems and personal recommendations, users can more easily and efficiently access a wide range of information sources. This helps improve users’ information skills and contributes to a better understanding of complex topics [3]. Furthermore, the availability of large datasets, such as those released by Harvard and Boston’s public library, ensures a more balanced and democratic distribution of knowledge, making valuable information accessible to everyone [2].