Will robots & AI replace Library Technicians?

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation technologies continue to evolve, many professions are confronting the risk of being replaced.

One such occupation is that of library technicians, who face an astounding 99% chance of being automated.

In this article, we will discuss the role of library technicians and examine the reasons behind their high likelihood of automation.

What Do Library Technicians Do?

Library technicians support the operations of libraries and information centers. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Assisting patrons: Library technicians help library users find information, locate materials, and use library resources such as computers, databases, and online catalogs.
2. Cataloging and classification: They are responsible for organizing library materials, assigning classification numbers, and creating catalog records to ensure that materials are easily accessible to patrons.
3. Circulation services: Library technicians manage circulation tasks, such as checking out and returning materials, issuing library cards, and maintaining patron records.
4. Collection maintenance: They assist in the maintenance of library collections, including shelving materials, performing inventory checks, and repairing damaged items.
5. Administrative tasks: Library technicians may also perform various administrative tasks, such as answering phones, scheduling events, and maintaining library databases.

Why Are Library Technicians at Risk of Automation?

The high probability of automation for library technicians can be attributed to several factors:

1. Advancements in AI and machine learning: AI-driven systems are becoming increasingly capable of processing and analyzing large amounts of data, allowing them to perform tasks such as cataloging and classification more efficiently and accurately than humans.
2. Digital transformation of libraries: The growing digitization of library resources and the adoption of digital platforms for accessing information have reduced the need for manual tasks traditionally performed by library technicians.
3. Automation of customer interactions: The implementation of chatbots and virtual assistants enables libraries to automate many customer interactions, reducing the need for human library technicians to assist patrons.
4. Cost savings and increased efficiency: Automating the tasks of library technicians can result in significant cost savings for libraries, as well as improved efficiency and reduced error rates.
5. Self-service technologies: The widespread adoption of self-service technologies, such as self-checkout stations and online catalog systems, has diminished the need for human intervention in library operations.

Conclusion

The role of library technicians is highly susceptible to automation due to rapid advancements in AI and machine learning technologies, as well as the increasing digitization of library resources and the adoption of self-service technologies.

By adopting automated solutions, libraries can benefit from cost savings, increased efficiency, and reduced error rates.

Library technicians should consider acquiring new skills and seeking opportunities in areas that are less likely to be automated, in order to remain relevant in the changing landscape of library services.

Cristian Gonzalez

I have been using automation tools for many years, now with the advancements of AI and Machine Learning I have been more and more interested in this topic, that's why I started Robotizados a website that helps people be informed about the risks, challenges, and opportunities of Artificial Intelligence.