A review of artificial intelligence applications in libraries in Southeast Asia: where are we now?
Cong Xu, Sandie Loo
Reference Services Review, Vol. 53, No. 1, pp.66-91

The purpose of this review is to examine the current state-of-the-art in artificial intelligence (AI) implementations within library settings across Southeast Asia.

The study uses the AI Library Services Innovative Conceptual Framework (AI-LSICF) to evaluate the AI initiatives in Southeast Asian libraries. Sources include relevant libraries and association’s websites, mainstream newspapers across Southeast Asia, together with academic papers published between 2019 and 2024, with a focus solely on English-language literature.

Most of the Southeast Asian libraries are in the decision and implementation stages in utilising AI technologies into library operations. It is evident that most of the libraries have made the decision to embrace AI techniques in the workplace and have started to implement the AI-enabled applications. Nevertheless, those implementations are not yet comprehensive and most of the projects are still in the trial stage. This suggests a unanimous decision concerning the use of AI in the libraries across the region has not been reached. Librarians may still face challenges and concerns in adopting AI, including resource constraints, application maintenance, staff reluctance, staff training, data security concerns and more.

A limitation of this study is its focus on completed and published projects, due to limited access to ongoing or unpublished initiatives. Non-English publications were excluded which may have omitted relevant studies and insights from non-English-speaking countries.

This paper seeks to address the gap by conducting a review of the current landscape of AI applications within libraries across Southeast Asia. Its aim to provide valuable insights for Southeast Asian libraries which seek to leverage AI advancements, ultimately supporting more user-centric and technologically adept library services.

The originality of this paper lies in its unique perspectives on library settings in Southeast Asia, showcasing successful projects while also pinpointing areas and countries in need of further development.