AI isn’t the future—it’s the present.

Public libraries are at a crossroads. In an era shaped by data, automation, and intelligent tools, libraries must evolve—not just to keep up, but to lead. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the public library ecosystem is no longer optional. It’s essential. We’ve recently worked with Markham Public Library and Burlington Public Library (BPL) and they found it incredibly rewarding. There is so much AI can do at the library.

At ENGR Solutions, we partner with libraries and public institutions to train staff on AI use and to strategically implement AI—not as a gimmick, but as a transformative tool aligned with your mission of equitable access, informed communities, and lifelong learning.

The Opportunity: Why Libraries Can’t Afford to Wait

According to the American Libraries Magazine, AI is already disrupting how information is produced, accessed, and consumed. Generative tools like Claude, Gemini and ChatGPT are rewriting the rules of discovery, search, and reference—areas libraries have traditionally mastered.

Yet, the ARL survey shows that less than 50% of libraries have a formal AI strategy, despite widespread acknowledgment of its long-term importance. In Canada, Toronto Public Library recently released its AI Policy and, in collaboration with Google Canada, is developing a city-wide AI upskilling initiative. The time to act is now.

Here’s how AI is already transforming library services; and how your institution can benefit.

AI can automate cataloging, generate metadata, and even suggest subject headings. As noted in Clarivate’s Pulse of the Library, libraries are seeing time savings and improved discoverability through AI-enhanced indexing. ENGR Solutions can help you assess legacy systems and design intelligent metadata workflows that boost discoverability without sacrificing control.

With tools like ChatGPT or Google’s Notebook LM libraries can deploy AI-powered reference assistants and research guides that handle common questions, recommend resources, and even guide research. Indeed working with BPL, staff at BPL have found tools like Notebook LM as promising as a tool to manage BPL’s community guidelines and policies.

 As Library Journal reported, libraries from New York to California are testing LLMs to supplement reference services and improve digital engagement. Right here in Canada, ENGR Solutions worked with BPL to train staff on using popular AI tools including Claude, ChatGPT and Gemini to enhance their work.

We design and implement secure, custom-trained AI agents that speak your library’s language—literally and figuratively.

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AI supports real-time translation, voice narration, and assistive interfaces that can help you serve multilingual, disabled, and neurodiverse patrons more equitably. This aligns with findings from GovTech and IFLA calling for ethical, accessible technology adoption.

Let ENGR Solutions help you implement AI that prioritizes digital equity and accessibility at every touchpoint.

Generative AI can analyze past event data, user surveys, and circulation trends to suggest programming ideas or optimize scheduling. According to Demco, AI can act as a planning assistant—freeing up staff to focus on relationships and creativity. Our AI analytics dashboards help you translate raw data into actionable insights for programming, outreach, and collections.

AI Strategy Is Not a Tool—It’s a Roadmap

As renowned AI-in-Libraries advocate Lorcan Dempsey outlines, libraries face multiple contexts for AI—from infrastructure to ethics. A piecemeal approach won’t work. You need an institutional strategy that balances:

•  Innovation with privacy
• Automation with human service
• Efficiency with equity

A successful AI strategy isn’t about adopting every new tool. It’s about aligning technology with mission—and mitigating risks through intentional design.

According to the ARL survey, less than half of libraries have formal AI strategies, even though over 70% acknowledge its transformative potential. Without a roadmap, many organizations risk falling behind—or implementing tech without safeguards.

ENGR Solutions offers full-stack support—from technical integration to governance consulting—so you can deploy AI safely, ethically, and impactfully.

Let’s Build the Future Together

Your library doesn’t need to choose between tradition and innovation. With the right strategy, you can enhance your services, support your staff, and deepen your impact.

AI is already shaping your patrons’ world. Let’s shape how they experience it, with you at the helm.

Sources

Toronto Public Library – AI Policy

Generative AI Is Here—How Should Public Libraries Handle It?  – Ideas & Inspiration from Demco

The World of AI | American Libraries Magazine

Pulse of the Library | Clarivate

Next Gen AI: Libraries Work with ChatGPT and Other Emerging AI Tools | Library Journal

Developing a library strategic response to Artificial Intelligence – IFLA

Evolving AI Strategies in Libraries: Insignts from Two Polls of ARL Member Representatives over Nine Months

Generative AI and libraries: seven contexts

How Should Public Libraries Leverage AI Technology?

Google Canada – Helping Build Canada’s AI Workforce with a $13 Million AI Opportunity Fund