Accountability, Integrity: AI Policy in Public Libraries

Abstract

As artificial intelligence reshapes both library work and the information environment, public libraries must determine whether or how to engage with AI while maintaining library values. To our knowledge, there exists no published analysis of how American and Canadian public library AI policies might link library values and technology adoption. To address this gap, we conducted an environmental scan of public library websites to identify and analyze AI policy statements. Our scan of over 200 library websites identified 32 AI policies. All reference at least two values, with privacy, security, and responsibility the most frequently cited.