Q: What is an AI librarian?

A: An AI librarian is a computer program that helps people find books and information in a library. It can answer questions and make suggestions, just like a human librarian.

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Q: How do you use an AI librarian?

A: At Nakanohigashi Library in Tokyo, visitors could use "Shiori the AI Librarian." Shiori is shown on a screen. People type questions or words, and Shiori answers, like chatting on a social media app. The company that made Shiori wants to use this technology in more libraries in Japan.

Q: How is it different from a usual library search?

A: Normally, you search for books by typing the title or author. With Shiori, you can type a topic, like "music," and Shiori will suggest books such as "The Fundamentals of Music Theory," "Techniques for Playing Musical Instruments," and "Music and Psychology." Shiori can help even if the search terms are not clear.

Q: Where can I try an AI librarian?

A: AI librarians are already used at Chuo Library in Kuki, Saitama Prefecture. The company hopes AI will help librarians by doing simple tasks, so staff can spend more time helping people in other ways.

(Japanese original by Kazuko Hamada, Cultural News Department)

Vocabulary:

librarian: a person who works in a library