AI-enhanced reference services in special libraries: a case study of the Hakka Literary Museum

What is it about?

This study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve how special libraries, such as the Hakka Literary Museum, help people find information. Traditional library services often struggle to meet the needs of users looking for detailed or specialized information, especially when libraries have limited staff or resources. To address this, the researchers designed a new four-level system with advanced AI tools. These tools include retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), which helps answer topic-related questions, and GraphRAG, which builds knowledge maps to explain more complex subjects. Each system level is designed to support different questions, from simple ones like opening hours to deeper research topics, such as cultural trends in literature. The study shows that using AI in this way helps libraries respond faster and more accurately to questions. It also makes it easier for users to explore cultural knowledge and connect with hard-to-find materials. This approach can be a powerful way for libraries to serve their communities better — especially those with unique collections or cultural missions — and to keep up with modern information needs.

Featured Image