Session 12: AI for Access: A Focus on the Mid-Atlantic

Abstract

The Digital Library Federation Born-Digital Access Working Group’s Visioning Access Systems discussed the state of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies in archives in the Mid-Atlantic region. This session, drawing on data from the “AI is for Access” national survey, illuminated how archival workers in the Mid-Atlantic are adopting or rejecting AI/ML. Specific topics discussed include how archival workers and institutions are using (or not using) these technologies, what kinds of tools are currently being used, and respondents’ perceptions – both positive and negative – about these tools and their use in the future. By providing data-driven analyses and trends, the presenters aimed to give attendees information they can bring back to their organizations to navigate the challenges and opportunities afforded by AI/ML head-on.