AI for User Analytics & Personalized Library Services

 

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center
Series: AI Transformation in Libraries (Part 5 of 10)

Introduction

Libraries today serve highly diverse user communities—students, researchers, professionals, and lifelong learners—each with distinct information needs and usage behaviors. Traditional “one-size-fits-all” services are no longer sufficient in an era of digital abundance and user-centric expectations.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) enables libraries to move from generic services to data-driven, personalized, and adaptive user experiences. Through user analytics, AI helps libraries understand how users interact with resources and design services that are more relevant, timely, and impactful.

 

1. Understanding User Analytics in Libraries

User analytics refers to the systematic analysis of:

• Search behavior
• Resource usage
• Access patterns
• Learning preferences
• Interaction history

AI enhances this process by identifying hidden patterns, trends, and predictive insights that traditional statistics cannot easily reveal.

 

2. How AI Powers User Analytics

2.1 Behavioral Analysis

AI analyzes:

• OPAC search queries
• Database access logs
• Circulation history
• Digital repository usage
• Clickstream data

to understand:

• What users search for
• When they search
• How often they return
• Which formats they prefer

This creates a dynamic user behavior profile.

 

2.2 User Segmentation

AI clusters users into groups such as:

• Undergraduate learners
• Research scholars
• Faculty members
• Skill-based learners
• Remote users

Segmentation allows libraries to tailor services, alerts, and resources for each user group.

 

2.3 Predictive Analytics

Using historical data, AI can:

• Predict peak usage times
• Anticipate resource demand
• Identify users at risk of disengagement
• Forecast training or reference needs

This enables proactive service planning.

 

3. Personalized Library Services Enabled by AI

3.1 Intelligent Recommendation Systems

AI recommends:

• Books and e-books
• Journals and articles
• Databases
• MOOCs and learning resources
• Institutional research outputs

based on:

• Past usage
• Subject interests
• Academic programs
• Research focus

Personalization improves discovery and user satisfaction.

 

3.2 Smart Alerts & Current Awareness Services

AI systems can automatically notify users about:

• New publications in their research area
• Recently acquired resources
• Citation updates
• Calls for papers
• Conferences and workshops

These alerts are customized, not generic.

 

3.3 Adaptive Interfaces

AI-driven library portals can:

• Customize homepage content
• Reorder search results based on relevance
• Suggest advanced filters
• Highlight frequently used tools

This creates a responsive and intuitive user experience.

 

3.4 Virtual Assistants & Conversational Agents

AI chatbots provide:

• Personalized responses
• Context-aware guidance
• Multilingual support
• Learning pathway suggestions

They learn continuously from user interactions.

 

4. Benefits of AI-Driven Personalization

✔ Enhanced User Engagement

Users discover more relevant resources quickly.

✔ Improved Learning Outcomes

Personalized support aligns with academic goals.

✔ Efficient Resource Utilization

High-value resources gain better visibility.

✔ Data-Informed Service Design

Libraries improve services based on real evidence.

✔ Stronger Library-User Relationships

Users feel understood and supported.

 

5. Privacy, Ethics & Responsible Analytics

Personalization must never compromise user trust.

Libraries must ensure:

• Anonymization of user data
• Transparent data collection policies
• User consent mechanisms
• Minimal data retention
• Bias-free algorithmic models

Ethical user analytics aligns with library values of intellectual freedom and privacy.

 

6. The Evolving Role of Librarians

In AI-driven environments, librarians become:

• Data interpreters
• User experience designers
• Privacy advocates
• Digital literacy trainers
• AI policy advisors

Human judgment remains essential for ethical oversight and service quality.

 

Conclusion

AI-powered user analytics enables libraries to deliver personalized, predictive, and user-centric services while optimizing resources and improving engagement. When implemented responsibly, AI strengthens—not weakens—the human-centered mission of libraries.

Personalization is not about surveillance; it is about relevance, responsiveness, and respect.

AI in Collection Development & Resource Management

 

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center
Series: AI Transformation in Libraries (Part 4 of 10)

 Introduction

Collection Development (CD) and Resource Management (RM) are the strategic engines of library growth. Traditionally, these workflows rely on circulation statistics, user requests, expert judgment, and periodic assessments. However, with the explosion of digital content, datasets, open-access materials, and user-generated needs, these manual approaches often fall short.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now emerging as a transformative force—bringing predictive analytics, automated decision-making, and evidence-based strategies to CD & RM. AI supports librarians in building smarter, user-centered, and future-ready collections.

 

1. How AI Supports Modern Collection Development

1.1 Predictive Analytics for Demand Forecasting

AI models analyze:

• Circulation patterns
• Search logs
• Academic trends
• Course syllabi
• User demographics
• Subject-wise resource usage

to predict future needs.

For example:

• Anticipating demand for emerging technologies
• Adjusting budgets based on projected subject popularity
• Forecasting heavy-use titles during exam periods

AI moves CD from reactive to proactive.

 

1.2 Smart Selection & Recommendation Tools

AI-powered systems can scan:

• Publisher catalogs
• Open-access repositories
• Preprint servers
• Research feeds
• Book reviews
• Citation databases

and automatically recommend potential acquisitions.

Tools like:

• GOBI AI modules
• EBSCO AI selection assistants
• Generative AI-based book evaluation bots

help libraries evaluate quality, relevance, and expected usage.

 

1.3 AI for Collection Gap Analysis

AI compares library holdings with:

• Institutional curricula
• Research trends
• Benchmark collections
• Faculty publications
• Community interests

to detect:

• Areas of underrepresentation
• Outdated materials
• Subjects needing expansion

This supports data-driven collection diversity and inclusiveness.

 

2. AI in Resource Management

2.1 Automated Weeding & Retention Decisions

AI tools evaluate:

• Age of materials
• Usage statistics
• Citation relevance
• Duplication
• Digital availability

and generate suggestions for:

• Weeding
• Retention
• Digitization priority
• Offsite storage

This helps librarians streamline shelf management and optimize space.

 

2.2 Budget Allocation & Cost Optimization

AI analyzes:

• Subscription usage
• Download trends
• Cost-per-use statistics
• Vendor pricing models

and offers:

• Budget forecasts
• Renewal recommendations
• Alternatives for low-use, high-cost resources

This significantly improves ROI in library investments.

 

2.3 AI for License & Access Management

AI-based systems can:

• Monitor access logs
• Detect unusual usage
• Ensure license compliance
• Recommend optimal access models (single-user, multi-user, evidence-based acquisition, etc.)

This automates many routine RM tasks.

 

3. Enhancing Decision-Making with AI Dashboards

Modern CD & RM depend on clear insights. AI dashboards generate:

• Trend visualization
• Resource heatmaps
• User segmentation
• Subject growth analysis
• Acquisition impact metrics

Librarians gain a full 360° view of collection health.

 

4. Benefits of AI in CD & RM

✔ Evidence-Based Decisions

No more guesswork—AI provides solid data.

✔ Time Savings

Automated analysis reduces manual workload.

✔ Improved User Satisfaction

Collections evolve according to real needs.

✔ Budget Efficiency

Identifies the most cost-effective resources.

✔ Balanced, Inclusive Collections

AI identifies diverse voices and underrepresented subjects.

 

5. Risks & Ethical Considerations

❗ Data Bias

If AI is trained on biased datasets, recommendations may favor dominant subjects.

❗ Overdependence on Automation

Librarian judgment must remain central.

❗ Privacy Concerns

Usage data must be anonymized.

❗ Vendor Lock-In

AI-driven models may limit transparency.

 

Conclusion

AI is helping libraries build agile, responsive, and intelligent collections. Instead of reacting to past usage, libraries can now anticipate future needs and strategically allocate resources. AI does not replace the expertise of librarians—it amplifies their ability to build meaningful collections that serve dynamic academic and community landscapes.

AI in Cataloguing & Metadata Services: Automation, Accuracy, and the Future of Library Technical Processing

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center
Series: AI Transformation in Libraries (Part 3 of 10)

Introduction

Cataloguing and metadata creation have traditionally been the backbone of library operations. These processes ensure that information resources are organized, discoverable, and accessible.
But they are also time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to human error—especially as libraries now manage books, articles, digital repositories, multimedia, datasets, and institutional outputs.

Enter Artificial Intelligence.

AI-powered automation is redefining how libraries create, enrich, and maintain metadata. From auto-classification to entity extraction, AI is accelerating workflows and enabling librarians to focus on higher-level knowledge structuring.

 

1. How AI Is Transforming Cataloguing Workflows

1.1 Automated Metadata Extraction

AI tools can read a document’s:

• Title
• Abstract
• Keywords
• References
• Section headings

…and automatically extract metadata fields.

AI in Reference and Information Services: Enhancing Smart User Support

 

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center
Series: AI Transformation in Libraries (Part 2 of 10)

Introduction

Reference and Information Services (RIS) are the heart of library operations—where user queries transform into meaningful knowledge experiences. With Artificial Intelligence entering mainstream library workflows, RIS is undergoing a profound shift from reactive assistance to predictive, context-aware, and personalized support.

AI does not replace reference librarians; rather, it enhances their capacity, enabling them to provide faster, deeper, and smarter user support.

 

1. AI Tools Transforming Reference Services

1.1 AI Chatbots for 24/7 Virtual Reference

AI-powered chatbots such as LibbyBots, EVA, or custom GPT-based agents provide:

• Round-the-clock support
• Answering FAQs
• Library orientations
• Basic reference guidance
• Resource discovery assistance

These systems reduce wait time and free librarians to focus on advanced queries.

 

Introduction to AI in Libraries: Concepts, Opportunities & the New Knowledge Frontier

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center
Series: AI Transformation in Libraries (Part 1 of 10)

Libraries are entering a new era of innovation—one shaped not by shelves or digital databases alone but by Artificial Intelligence (AI). From intelligent search to autonomous cataloguing, AI is rapidly transforming how libraries operate, support users, and envision their future role in society.

This first blog in the series explores what AI really means, why it matters for libraries, and how it is redefining the modern information ecosystem.

 

1. What Is Artificial Intelligence in the Library Context?

Artificial Intelligence refers to computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. In libraries, AI is not limited to robots or chatbots—it spans a spectrum of technologies that process, analyze, recommend, and even generate information.

Core AI Technologies Relevant to Libraries

• Machine Learning (ML) – systems that learn from patterns (e.g., predicting book demand)
• Natural Language Processing (NLP) – understanding and generating human language (e.g., automated indexing)
• Computer Vision – identifying images or documents (e.g., smart scanning tools)
• Generative AI – creating text, summaries, translations, or metadata
• Recommendation Engines – like those used in e-commerce to suggest books or research resources
• Automation & Robotics – for circulation, sorting, or inventory management

Together, these technologies support a new generation of smart library services.

 

XR Safety, Ethics & Accessibility in Libraries: Ensuring Responsible Immersive Experiences

5th Blog in the XR-in-Libraries Series

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center 

Extended Reality (XR) technologies—encompassing AR, VR, and MR—have become integral tools for education, skill training, research support, and digital literacy programs in modern libraries. However, with these opportunities comes an essential responsibility: creating safe, ethical, and accessible XR environments for all users.

As libraries evolve into immersive learning laboratories, XR governance becomes just as important as XR hardware. This blog outlines the core safety, ethical, and accessibility frameworks librarians must adopt to ensure these technologies are inclusive, secure, and responsible.

 

1. Understanding XR Risks in Library Settings

While XR opens pathways for immersive learning, it also introduces physical, psychological, and digital risks:

Physical Risks

• Collisions due to limited spatial awareness
• Tripping over cables or furniture
• Eye strain and dizziness during prolonged sessions
• Motion sickness, especially in fast-moving VR content

Psychological Risks

• Over-immersion causing emotional distress
• Exposure to age-inappropriate or sensitive content
• Difficulty distinguishing virtual versus real environments

Digital & Data Risks

• Tracking of eye movements, gestures, and user biometrics
• Cloud-based storage of usage patterns
• Privacy vulnerabilities in third-party XR platforms

Libraries must recognize these risks early and build policies around them.

 

Training Librarians for XR Competencies: Building Skills for the Immersive Future of Libraries

 

4th Blog in the XR-in-Libraries Series
By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center

As libraries evolve into technology-rich learning hubs, the role of librarians is rapidly shifting from traditional information mediators to immersive technology facilitators, digital creators, and XR learning mentors. For libraries to successfully implement AR, VR, and MR services, librarians must be equipped with the right XR competencies, pedagogical skills, and digital confidence.

This blog outlines the essential skills, training models, and capacity-building strategies that libraries and LIS schools must adopt to prepare a workforce capable of leading XR-enabled learning environments.

 

Why Librarians Need XR Skills

Reason	Description
Libraries are becoming XR Learning Labs	XR adoption is growing in academic, public, and special libraries.
Users need hands-on support	Librarians must guide students, researchers, and community members in XR usage.
XR literacy is part of digital literacy	Understanding spatial computing is the next frontier.
New services demand new competencies	XR content creation, 3D modeling, and immersive pedagogy require training.
LIS professions are evolving	Future librarians will manage immersive content, XR labs, and experiential learning spaces.

 

Core XR Competencies for Librarians

Librarians need a blend of technical, pedagogical, managerial, and safety-focused skills to effectively run XR services.

 

1. Technical Competencies

Device & Hardware Handling

• VR headset setup (Meta Quest, HTC Vive, Pico)
• MR devices (HoloLens, Magic Leap)
• AR-enabled tablets & smartphones
• 360° cameras and spatial audio devices

Software & Tools

• AR creation tools (Assemblr, Zappar, Adobe Aero)
• VR environments (Unity, Unreal Engine)
• 3D modelling (Tinkercad, Blender)
• 3D asset platforms (Sketchfab, Polycam)

Lab Management

• Device calibration & troubleshooting
• Room-scale safety configurations
• Hardware cleaning & maintenance
• Network and storage management

 

XR Content Creation in Libraries: Empowering Users and Expanding Digital Possibilities

3rd Blog in the XR-in-Libraries Series
By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center

Extended Reality (XR)—an umbrella term covering Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR)—is no longer limited to industry and gaming. Libraries are now becoming active producers of XR content, helping learners, researchers, and community members create immersive digital experiences.

As AI, 3D modeling tools, and no-code XR platforms become more accessible, libraries can evolve from XR consumers to XR creators, adding new value to education, digital literacy, and community innovation.

 

Why XR Content Creation Matters in Libraries

Benefit	Description
Promotes Digital Creativity	Users learn 3D design, storytelling, and spatial media skills.
Supports STEM and Vocational Education	Enables simulation-based learning and virtual prototyping.
Boosts Research & Innovation	XR becomes a tool for data visualization, architecture, archaeology, and medical studies.
Strengthens Library Visibility	XR labs attract partnerships, grants, and collaborations.
Empowers Local Communities	Cultural heritage digitization and AR storytelling projects thrive.

 

Types of XR Content Libraries Can Help Create

1. 360° Photos & Videos

• Virtual campus tours
• Local history documentation
• Event capturing
• Makerspace tutorials

Tools: Insta360, GoPro Max, Google Street View Studio

How to build XR Labs in Libraries: A Practical Guide for Implementing AR/VR/MR Services

 

2nd Blog in the XR-in-Libraries Series

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center

Libraries across the world are evolving from passive information centres into active creators of immersive learning experiences. After understanding the potential of AR/VR/MR, the next major step for forward-looking libraries—academic, public, or special—is the creation of an XR Lab.

An XR Lab (Extended Reality Lab) is a dedicated space where users can explore Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR) and 360° digital environments for learning, training, research, and innovation.

This guide outlines how librarians can plan, design, implement, and sustain an XR-enabled learning environment.

 

1. Why Libraries Need XR Labs

Libraries with XR Labs gain significant advantages:

• Support for STEM, vocational, technical, and professional learning
• Opportunities for immersive research (anatomy, architecture, engineering)
• Hands-on simulation-based learning
• Enhanced information literacy and digital literacy
• Increased user engagement and footfall
• Establishment of the library as a technology and innovation hub

AR/VR/MR in Libraries: Transforming User Experience Through Immersive Technologies

 

1st Blog in the XR-in-Libraries Series

By Niranjan Mohapatra, World Skill Center

What is AR, VR, and MR? (Quick Infographic)

Technology	What It Does	User Devices
AR – Augmented Reality	Adds digital elements on top of the real world	Mobile, Tablet, AR Glasses
VR – Virtual Reality	Creates a fully immersive digital world	VR Headset + Controllers
MR – Mixed Reality	Merges digital objects with the physical world and allows interaction	HoloLens, Magic Leap

 

Why XR (AR/VR/MR) Matters for Libraries

Libraries are shifting from information storage to experiential learning ecosystems. XR enables:

• Immersive learning experiences
• Enhanced visualization for complex subjects
• Collaborative and interactive learning
• Skill-based, hands-on simulations
• High engagement and curiosity-driven exploration

 

Call for Papers – upcomming issue (Vol. 1, Issue 2) of JLII

 Call for Papers – upcomming issue (Vol. 1, Issue 2) of Journal of Library Insights & Innovations

• ISSN: 3107-9652

We are pleased to announce the launch of the Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII), a Gold Open Access journal dedicated to advancing research and practice in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS). We invite researchers, academicians, LIS professionals, and scholars to submit their original research articles, case studies, review papers, and innovative practices for the upcomming Issue (Vol. 1, Issue 2), scheduled for publication in December 2025.

Scope & Topics

The journal welcomes contributions on, but not limited to, the following areas:
✔ Library Management & Services
✔ Open Source Software for Libraries
✔ Digital Libraries & Institutional Repositories

Launch of the Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII)

 

We are delighted to announce the launch of the Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII), published by DrLibSc.

JLII is an open access journal created to bring together librarians, educators, researchers, and information professionals to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and showcase innovations in Library and Information Science.

Our first issue features a diverse set of contributions that highlight the evolving role of libraries in a digital era. All articles are freely available under the Creative Commons (CC BY 4.0) license, ensuring global accessibility and visibility.

We sincerely thank the authors, reviewers, and advisory/editorial team whose support has made this inaugural issue possible. We warmly invite the LIS community worldwide to read, contribute, and join us in shaping JLII into a platform of innovation and collaboration.

👉 Explore the inaugural issue here

Warm regards,

Niranjan Mohapatra
Managing Editor
Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII)
Published by DrLibSc

Registration for UGC-NET DEC 2025 is going on

 

About UGC-NET

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has been entrusted by the University Grants Commission (UGC) with the task of conducting UGC-NET, which is a Test to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for ‘Award of Junior Research Fellowship’ ,  ‘Appointment as Assistant Professor’, ‘Appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to Ph.D.’ and ‘Admission to Ph.D. only’ in Indian Universities and Colleges. The UGC-NET is being conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode w.e.f. December 2018 onwards.

Awarding Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and/ or Eligibility for Assistant Professorship and/ or Admission to Ph.D only depends on the aggregate performance of the candidate in Part-I and Part-II of UGC-NET. The candidates qualifying under the ‘appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to Ph.D.’ category will be eligible for appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to Ph.D. but not for the award of JRF. The candidates qualifying under the ‘admission to Ph.D. only’ category will be eligible for admission to Ph.D. only but not for the award of JRF and/or appointment as Assistant Professor.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND DATES AT A GLANCE 

• Online registration and submission of Application Form (complete in all respects) through NTA Website: https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in/  07th October 2025 to 07th November 2025 (upto 11:50 P.M.) 
• Last date for successful transaction of Examination fee (through Credit Card/ Debit Card/Net Banking/UPI Payment Modes 07th November 2025 (upto 11:50 P.M.) 

Call for Papers–Inaugural Issue (Vol. 1, Issue 1) of Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII)

Call for Papers –

Inaugural Issue (Vol. 1, Issue 1) of Journal of Library Insights & Innovations

We are pleased to announce the launch of the Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII), a Gold Open Access journal dedicated to advancing research and practice in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS). We invite researchers, academicians, LIS professionals, and scholars to submit their original research articles, case studies, review papers, and innovative practices for the Welcome Issue (Vol. 1, Issue 1), scheduled for publication in June 2025.

Scope & Topics

The journal welcomes contributions on, but not limited to, the following areas:

✔ Library Management & Services

✔ Open Source Software for Libraries

✔ Digital Libraries & Institutional Repositories

✔ Emerging Trends in Information Science

✔ Information Literacy & User Studies

✔ Artificial Intelligence in Libraries

✔ Data Management & Research Support Services

✔ Open Access, Open Science, & Scholarly Communication

✔ Plagiarism Detection & Academic Integrity

✔ Innovations in Library Technology & Automation

Submission Guidelines:

Deadline for Submission: 31/05/2025

Peer Review: Double-blind peer review process

Submission Link: make a new submission here on the journal page  https://journal.drlibsc.com/index.php/jlii (Online Submission Only)

Why Publish with Us?

Gold Open Access – Immediate & free access to published content

DOI & Indexing – Ensuring wider visibility & citation impact

Rigorous Peer Review – Maintaining high research integrity

We look forward to your valuable contributions in making this inaugural issue a success!

For more details, visit [https://journal.drlibsc.com/index.php/jlii ] or contact us at [drlibscjournal@gmail.com].

Join us in shaping the future of LIS research and innovation!

--

Prof. (Dr.) Jyotshna Sahoo

Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Library Insights & Innovations (JLII)

Professor & Head, Dept. of Library and Information Science,

Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences,

Berhampur University, Odisha, India