HisLens: A Knowledge-Enhancing Book Reader for Chinese Historical Archives

Abstract

HisLens is an interdisciplinary innovation project, aiming to transform the massive Chinese historical literature in libraries into dynamic and interactive knowledge networks through AI and knowledge graph technology, and promote the transformation of traditional collections from "static storage" to "smart services". It addresses the limitations of current digital reading tools, which focus on surface-level text and lack support for deeper content understanding—particularly in specialized materials like historical archives and literature. By applying automated entity recognition (e.g., people, events, locations) and semantic association, HisLens converts scattered text into a structured knowledge base, enhancing reading efficiency and engagement. The platform offers layered services for diverse users: scholars can explore historical connections via timeline tools and social graphs; the public can engage with history through interactive visual narratives; library staff can manage annotations, plan exhibitions, and optimize services using behavior analytics. A pilot framework based on Qingshilu has been successfully developed, demonstrating scalability to genealogy, local chronicles, and archival data. HisLens promotes the shift from static storage to intelligent library services, facilitating deep activation and global sharing of cultural heritage resources. Keywords: Tag #1 : Chinese historical archives Tag #2 : knowledge graph Tag #3 : knowledge-enhancing library services

AI in libraries; Chinese historical literature; Digital humanities; Semantic technology; Interactive reading; Cultural heritage; Visual storytelling; Library innovation