The OCLC Research Library Partnership
Managing AI in Metadata Workflows - A Metadata Managers Working Group
This working group explores the specific challenges that metadata managers face when considering AI for metadata workflows. It seeks to identify key issues and recommend resources that can increase metadata managers’ confidence, curiosity, and ability to communicate about AI.
Background
Metadata managers are facing the challenge of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly and effectively to streamline metadata workflows within their organizations. In 2024, the Metadata Managers Focus Group convened to discuss how members were preparing themselves and their staff for the impacts of new data science, machine learning, and large language models:
Participants emphasized the importance of approaching AI with open minds and a sense of curiosity. However, they also identified a significant gap in available resources specifically addressing the impacts of AI on metadata workflows. Metadata managers recognized the need for a tailored resource to guide them in making informed decisions about when, where, and how to deploy AI tools responsibly.
OCLC Research took early steps to address this need by charting library community engagement with data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI) in Responsible Operations: Data Science, Machine Learning, and AI in Libraries. Developed in partnership with a wide array of higher education and GLAM professionals, its recommendations remain an excellent starting place for discussion and action.
Working Group Members
- Helen Baer, Colorado State University
- Michael Bolam, University of Pittsburgh
- Jenn Colt, Cornell University
- Elly Cope, University of Leeds
- Susan Dahl, University of Calgary
- Michela Goodwin, National Library of Australia
- Amanda Harlan, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- Miloche Kottman, University of Kansas
- Chingmy Lam, University of Sydney
- Yasha Razizadeh, New York University
- Jill Reilly, National Archives and Records Administration
- Mia Ridge, British Library
- Tim Thompson, Yale University
- Mary Beth Weber, Rutgers University
- Cathy Weng, Princeton University
- Helen Williams, London School of Economics