SABINET LIBRARY SOLUTIONS  •  THOUGHT-LEADERSHIP SERIES  

AI and libraries: opportunity, not replacement 

Keeping human expertise at the centre of innovation 

Artificial intelligence is changing the way information is organised, discovered and used. For libraries, it presents opportunities to improve workflows, save time and help users find information more efficiently. 

The important question is how libraries can use it responsibly while keeping professional judgement and trusted information at the centre. 

Cataloguing provides a practical example. AI can analyse existing bibliographic information and suggest subject headings or classification numbers. The cataloguer can then review these suggestions, apply professional judgement and decide what is appropriate for the record and collection. 

OCLC has introduced AI-supported cataloguing features that can suggest Dewey Decimal Classification numbers, Library of Congress Classification numbers and Library of Congress Subject Headings. Cataloguers remain in control and can accept or disregard the suggestions. 

This combination of technology and human expertise can help cataloguers complete routine tasks more efficiently while protecting the quality and consistency of library data. 

OCLC’s approach to AI is informed by an understanding of library practice and metadata standards. Its aim is to extend human expertise across cataloguing, discovery, resource sharing and information-enrichment workflows rather than replace library professionals. 

This aligns with Sabinet’s approach to responsible innovation. Sabinet’s corporate principles include human-led AI, responsible innovation and credible information. Technology supports people, while human expertise provides context, judgement and oversight. 

AI can process large volumes of information quickly and identify patterns that may not be immediately visible. Librarians bring an understanding of users, collections, context and professional standards. Their expertise provides the oversight needed to assess and refine AI-generated results. 

The future of libraries should therefore not be framed as a choice between people and technology. The greatest value comes from combining intelligent tools with quality data and professional expertise. 

Used responsibly, AI can give library professionals more support while allowing them to focus their time and attention on work that requires specialist knowledge, judgement and a deeper understanding of their communities. 

Sources and reference material 

Sabinet Integrated Annual Report 2025/26: Internal Sabinet source used for corporate purposes, mission, Library Solutions positioning and partnership context. 

https://www.oclc.org/en/home.html 

Leading the way on AI for libraries: https://www.oclc.org/en/artificial-intelligence.html 

AI cataloguing release: https://www.oclc.org/en/news/releases/2025/20251208-ai-recordmanager-connexion.html