Ex Libris™, part of Clarivate™, has announced the rollout of its AI Metadata Assistant preview to all Alma™ customers, aiming to streamline library cataloging workflows and enhance metadata creation. Integrated into the Alma Metadata Editor, this innovative tool is included in the Alma November feature release.
The AI Metadata Assistant employs generative AI based on a Large Language Model to process information about library resources and generate metadata suggestions. This approach blends AI efficiency with the expertise of librarians, optimizing the process of creating and enriching bibliographic records.
Currently in its initial development phase, the AI Metadata Assistant supports MARC 21 records in English, using Library of Congress authorities. Future phases will expand support to additional languages and vocabularies.
The preview follows extensive testing by over 300 libraries worldwide, conducting more than 2,000 evaluations—including 800 tests in the past two weeks. Early access was granted to a select group of 14 libraries globally, whose feedback helped shape the tool's development.
Library administrators can activate the preview at any time, allowing catalogers to experience AI-enhanced metadata suggestions firsthand and provide direct feedback through the integrated tool.
The first phase of general availability for the AI Metadata Assistant is planned for the first half of 2025. This phase will introduce advanced workflows and expanded capabilities beyond the current preview mode.
Further details about the tool’s development and roadmap can be accessed through the Ex Libris Knowledge Center.
Click here to read the original press release.
More News in this Theme
