Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most significant technological advancements and a transformative force of the 21st century. It refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks efficiently that normally require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, self-correction, perception, language understanding etc. AI has rapidly evolved from a theoretical concept into a practical tool embedded into systems that are integral to daily human activities of modern life. Its ability to mimic human intelligence is reshaping industries, healthcare, transportation, finance, governance and decision making, communication, infrastructure, education and various other sectors.

In the field of higher education, AI is bringing a paradigm shift in how teaching, learning, and research are conducted. Universities and colleges around the world are adopting AI-based tools and adaptive learning platforms to create more personalized learning experiences. AI models and intelligent search algorithms aids simulations, predictive analysis, and decision-making. AI has significantly transformed the research landscape by enhancing the speed, efficiency, and scope of scientific inquiry. It enables researchers to process and analyse vast amounts of data quickly, uncover patterns, and generate insights that would be difficult to obtain manually. Equally important is AI's role in fostering inclusivity in education. Through real-time translation, speech-to-text technologies, and accessible content generation, AI is helping break barriers for students with disabilities or those from non-native language backgrounds.

In the domain of library science, AI is revolutionizing the way information is organized, accessed, and preserved. Traditional library systems are being upgraded by adopting AI driven technologies to significantly enhance operational efficiency, improve the user experience, and advance digital access and preservation. The applications are vast and rapidly expanding, ranging from smart cataloguing, intelligent discovery systems, digital archiving, content recommendation to addressing crucial ethical concerns and promoting sustainable AI practices. Despite its benefits, AI raises several ethical and social challenges. Issues like data privacy, algorithmic bias, accountability in decision-making need urgent attention. There are growing calls for transparent, fair, and responsible AI development, guided by ethical principles and inclusive governance. Thus, there is a growing need for robust knowledge exchange among LIS professionals, educators, technologists, policymakers, and researchers. This seminar aims to provide a comprehensive platform to explore the potentials, challenges, and future directions of AI with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ethical frameworks, and capacity building.

Objectives

This seminar seeks to:
• Explore AI's role and impact on core library functions, including acquisition, cataloguing, metadata creation, and user services, intelligent archiving, digitization etc.
• Discuss user interface advancements and discovery tools enhanced by AI for personalized and predictive services.
• Encourage collaboration between educators, librarians, and technologists for the effective adoption and implementation of AI solutions.
• Sharing best practices, real-world case studies as well as innovative approaches towards using AI in academic environments.
• Understand AI's role in scholarly communication, including metric study, research management, and publication workflows.
• Critically analyse the ethical, legal, and policy implications of AI, addressing issues of bias, privacy, and intellectual property rights (IPR).
• Highlight the importance of AI in capacity building in educational and professional training.
• Investigate how AI can support inclusive services and bridge digital divides in multilingual and underserved communities.

Please click here for themes and sub-themes