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University library information services are being rapidly reorganized around artificial intelligence (AI). Moving beyond simple search functions or predefined question-and-answer systems, intelligent AI services that understand users’ intent, maintain conversational context, and deliver relevant information are increasingly being adopted in library settings.
Recently, research AI company tlooto introduced its library-specialized AI chatbot, tlooto Copilot, which has been deployed in more than 70 university libraries, signaling that the transition toward AI-based services in university libraries is now gaining momentum. One of the key features of this AI is its conversational structure, which interprets the context and purpose of a user’s question in real time, retrieves relevant information, and responds continuously to follow-up questions.
Whereas conventional library systems were largely centered on fixed question-and-answer formats or menu-based navigation, these newer AI services differ in that they can understand the flow of a research topic and guide users through the exploration process itself. Users can ask questions in natural language rather than relying on isolated keywords, and the AI can maintain context throughout the conversation while suggesting ways to access materials, explaining concepts, and offering directions for further inquiry.
In particular, tlooto Copilot is able to utilize a database of more than 200 million academic papers through collaborations with major global scholarly publishers. This allows it to go beyond basic library-use guidance and provide substantive support for research information discovery. It demonstrates that university libraries are expanding their role from being mere gateways to information access into AI-driven research support infrastructure.
Experts note that this shift is expected not only to elevate the level of digitalization in library services, but also to redefine the role of librarians—from handling routine guidance tasks to providing more advanced research support and information curation. In this sense, the adoption of AI in university libraries is no longer viewed as an experimental initiative, but as a structural transformation already underway.