Measuring AI Adoption Impact on Academic Library Workflows

This research paper examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption on academic library workflows, focusing on operational improvements in metadata creation, cataloguing, and course reading list processes. The study analyzes the implementation of two Clarivate products: Alma AI Metadata Assistant and Leganto Syllabus Assistant, as utilized in various academic institutions. Through in-depth interviews with library professionals, the paper documents significant reductions in time spent on manual tasks, with some workflows seeing time cut from hours to minutes. The findings indicate that AI tools can enhance consistency, standardization, and overall efficiency in library operations. Libraries reported a marked increase in the availability of reading lists and metadata records, allowing for a more proactive approach to course support. The research highlights that while AI can streamline operations, it does not replace the need for professional judgment or accountability. The paper concludes with strategic takeaways for library leaders on the effective adoption and governance of AI tools in library settings.