On August 8, 2024, the International Seminar on Artificial Intelligence and Information Integrity at MEXINFO, hosted by UNAM in Mexico City, brought together global participants for insightful discussions on the interplay between AI and information integrity. The seminar, a collaboration between IFLA's Advisory Committee on Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression (FAIFE) and the Artificial Intelligence Special Interest Group, aimed to explore the benefits, challenges, and ethical implications of AI in the context of libraries and information systems.
Keynote speaker Andrew Cox, from the University of Sheffield, highlighted AI's growing role in libraries, including new methods for describing collections and the use of chatbots for inquiries. He also addressed the ethical challenges posed by AI, such as bias, privacy concerns, and the erosion of trust in information systems. The seminar featured a panel discussion with IFLA leaders and partners, including Jonathan Hernandez, Jeannette Lebron, and Jonathan Band, who examined the impact of AI on IFLA policy and the unique challenges faced by different regions, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The event also featured twelve presentations covering topics like AI's impact on trust, ethical considerations, and AI literacy, with contributions from participants worldwide. Maria De Brasdefer from IFLA HQ provided updates on IFLA’s digital inclusion initiatives and the new IFLA Internet Manifesto, urging engagement with the manifesto’s content to strengthen libraries' roles in the digital space.
Overall, the seminar offered a comprehensive overview of AI's current and future impact on libraries, fostering a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges ahead. Read More