Redefining Libraries in the Era of AI: Innovations, Challenges and Future Trends

The Learning Resource Centre at IMT Nagpur successfully conducted a two-day workshop titled “Redefining Libraries in the Era of AI” on March 21-22, 2025. The workshop aimed to provide librarians with knowledge and practical exposure to AI-driven innovations in library management. The event witnessed active participation from 50 librarians across Maharashtra and various other states of India.

The primary objectives of the workshop were to familiarize librarians with AI tools and their applications in library operations, explore innovative solutions for digital transformation, provide hands-on experience with AI-powered research and content management tools, and facilitate discussions on the future of AI in libraries.

The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. Mangala Hirwade, Head, Department of Library & Information Science, RTM Nagpur University. The Valedictory Session was graced by Dr. Rajnandan Patnaik, Senior Dean – Academics, and Dr. Janaki Ramudu, Dean – Research, who appreciated the participants’ engagement and emphasized the need continuous learning in AI adoption for libraries. Key highlights of the workshop included an introduction to AI applications in library science, hands-on training on AI tools for content management and research support, interactive discussions on AI ethics, challenges, and future implications, case studies on successful AI adoption in library settings, and networking opportunities for librarians and AI experts.

The workshop featured distinguished speakers and experts from various institutions, including Dr. Banka Bihari Chand (Head NACLIN, Librarian, IIM Ahmedabad), Dr. Abhishek Singh (Assistant Professor, Systems & Management, IMT Nagpur), Mr. Gautam Raval (Account Manager, Turnitin), Dr. Vrushali Dandawate (Librarian, AISSMS COE, DOAJ Ambassador, India), Dr. Sunil Kumar MV (Faculty – Systems and General Management, SDMIMD, Mysore), Dr. Bhojaraju Gunjal (Chief Library Officer, IIT Hyderabad), Mrs. Shubhashree Nag (Strategic Customer Consultant, Clarivate), Mr. K.S. Rao (AI Solutions Specialist), and Dr. Yamini Meduri (Founder & Lead Designer, Y-Mindset). These resource persons shared their expertise through insightful lectures and hands-on sessions, helping participants explore ways to integrate AI into library operations effectively.

The workshop was conceptualized and efficiently managed by Dr. Mantha Raghu, Head-Librarian, IMT Nagpur, along with his dedicated LRC Team: Amarjeet Kaur, Vilas Yemde, Jagdish Pande, Suresh Thakre, and Kiran Chatap.

The workshop received highly positive feedback from participants, who expressed their appreciation for the well-structured sessions, practical exposure, and insightful discussions. Participants highlighted the significance of AI-driven solutions in enhancing library services and requested similar initiatives in the future. The workshop successfully met its objectives, providing librarians with valuable knowledge and practical insights into AI’s role in modern library management.