Technical Services Interest Group

Managing AI in metadata workflows: Where AI efficiency and human expertise meet

Libraries face persistent challenges in managing metadata that can limit discovery and strain staff capacity. At the same time, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) provide opportunities for streamlining workflows and amplifying human expertise-but how can metadata staff balance opportunities for efficiency with the need for human care and expertise?

This four-part Hanging Together blog series explores these questions in different areas of metadata management work, sharing the outcomes from the OCLC RLP Managing AI in Metadata Workflows Working Group.

• Backlogs and beyond: AI in primary cataloging workflows­
  Facing cataloging backlogs, legacy metadata issues, and language challenges, libraries are exploring how AI may offer practical support-while keeping human expertise central.
• Exploring AI uses in archives and special collections: Integration, entities, and addressing need
  Learn how archives and special collections are exploring using AI responsibly to meet accessibility requirements and improve access to unique resources.
• Examining the role of AI in institutional repository workflows
  Can AI help to manage institutional repository metadata? From improving deposit workflows to cleaning up legacy data, explore how AI might support IRs while keeping human expertise front and center.
• Striking the right balance: Opportunities and challenges of AI in metadata workflows
  AI can enhance metadata work-but only with care. Learn how libraries can balance innovation with quality and ethical practice.

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Kate James (she/her/hers)
OCLC · Program Coordinator- Metadata Engagement, Global Product Management
6565 Kilgour Place, Dublin, Ohio, 43017 United States
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