A New Paradigm for Librarianship: A Review of Library Associations’ Work and AI from 2019 Until the Present

Abstract

This article reviews how library associations worldwide have shaped the profession’s engagement with Artificial Intelligence (AI) from 2019 to the present. During this period, AI has driven a paradigm shift in librarianship, influencing professional practice, education, policy, and global advocacy. Through competency frameworks, ethical guidelines, international collaborations, and alignment with United Nations initiatives, associations such as ALA, IFLA, ARL, CENL, and ACRL have played a central role in guiding responsible and inclusive AI adoption. Key milestones between 2019 and 2025 illustrate the institutionalization of AI readiness across the field. The article concludes by identifying three strategic priorities—AI literacy, global collaboration, and agile governance—that will enable library associations to continue leading the profession through ongoing technological transformation. Reflections by Loida Garcia-Febo, MLAS Chair, on how library associations have been navigating, interpreting, and leading within the global conversation on AI since 2019.