London, U.K., September 9, 2024 – Clarivate Plc (NYSE: CLVT), a leading global provider of transformative intelligence, has published its inaugural Pulse of the Library™ report. The study indicates that libraries are in the early stages of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance their services. Librarians are particularly focused on AI's potential to improve content discovery and streamline internal processes, though challenges such as limited AI expertise and budget constraints persist.
The report draws insights from over 1,500 librarians worldwide, spanning academic, national, and public libraries. Alongside the report, an interactive microsite offers dynamic data visualizations, allowing users to compare results by region and library type. The data is freely accessible.
Oren Beit-Arie, Senior Vice President of Strategy & Innovation at Clarivate, commented: “Clarivate has long been a partner to libraries as they adapt to technological advancements, economic shifts, and the changing needs of their communities. Generative AI is now profoundly reshaping this landscape, and we remain committed to supporting libraries by providing data and insights that will help them navigate challenges and continue advancing research, education, and community engagement.”
Key findings of the report include:
- AI strategies in development: Over 60% of respondents are either planning or actively evaluating AI integration within their libraries.
- AI adoption tops tech priorities: For 43% of respondents, AI-driven tools for library users and patrons are the leading technology focus for the next 12 months.
- AI supports core library missions: For those implementing AI, key objectives include enhancing student learning (52%), improving research excellence (47%), and boosting content discoverability (45%), all aligning with traditional library goals.
- Balancing AI’s promise and pitfalls: While 42% believe AI can automate routine tasks, allowing librarians to focus on strategic and creative work, concerns vary by region. Skills gaps and budget constraints are top challenges, overshadowing privacy and security concerns.
- Shrinking budgets: Nearly half (47%) identified shrinking budgets as their greatest hurdle.
- Skills gap: Although 52% expect AI to impact employment through upskilling, 32% report that no training is currently available.
- IT leads AI advancement: Combining IT expertise with strategic leadership will be critical for libraries to transition from planning to implementation of AI over the next few years.
- Regional differences in priorities: Views on issues like sustainability, diversity, open access, and open science vary significantly by region.
Derek Brown, Director of IT at Rochester Hills Public Library, emphasized: “The future of librarianship will blend traditional roles with new, technology-driven responsibilities. Even with AI, librarians will remain essential in guiding users through the information age, combining community engagement with cutting-edge technology to enhance library services.”
Beit-Arie concluded: “This global survey marks a significant milestone in our ongoing collaboration with the library community. Through initiatives like our Pulse of the Library report and the *Academia AI Advisory Council*, we continue to listen, understand the evolving challenges, and work together to navigate an increasingly complex world.”
In early 2024, Clarivate launched the *Academia AI Advisory Council*, which includes library and academic leaders from institutions around the world. Their collective insights help shape responsible and innovative AI use in academic settings, influencing Clarivate's AI solutions.
