Catalysing Change: An AI Roadmap for Cataloguers at the National Library Board of Singapore (NLB)

Abstract

This presentation outlines the National Library Board Singapore’s (NLB) comprehensive roadmap for integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cataloging workflows to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and metadata enrichment. With more than three million bibliographic records and over a million name headings to manage, NLB is leveraging machine learning (ML) and AI tools to modernize cataloging processes while maintaining data quality and precision.

The AI roadmap combines staff upskilling and experimentation through six proof-of-concept (POC) projects. By cultivating AI literacy among cataloguers and refining human–AI collaboration, NLB is building a sustainable and scalable model for metadata innovation. The presentation shares key learnings and outlines next steps toward integrating AI tools responsibly and effectively into national cataloging practices.

(presented on 15 August 2025 at "Institutional Responses to AI: Libraries, Standards Bodies and Bibliographic Agencies in Transition" session)