AI Resources

This page collects further resources on generative AI, both in licensed resources and as part of broader critical literacy around AI. 

Assessing AI in Licensed Resources

Library Freedom Project AI in Vendor Tools Database

• This resource is a detailed compilation of generative AI tools and integrations in vendor products, collected by the Library Freedom Project. Information includes the language model used, if known; whether the AI can be turned off; and vendor statements regarding data collection and accuracy, where available. Licensed CC-BY-NC by Library Freedom Project.

Questions to Ask Vendors about AI

• This list of questions can be used by library staff when determining whether to license a product that includes an AI tool, as well as when engaging in conversations and negotiations with the vendor. Licensed CC-BY-NC by Library Freedom Project.

AI in Library Licensed Platforms Rubric 

• This rubric, developed by Vancouver Island University, is an assessment tool for library staff who want to evaluate AI in library-licensed platforms. It considers dimensions including cost, quality, integrity, data security, and social and environmental concerns. Licensed CC-BY by Vancouver Island University. 

Further Learning on AI in Licensed Resources

A Librarian's Guide to AI in Academic Search Tools

• This May 2025 article offers understandings of some of the AI techologies used in library vendor products, including large language models (LLMs), retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and semantic search. It also explores how integration of these AI tools affects the interpretability and reproducibility of search results. Authored by Aaron Tay; published and licensed CC-BY-NC by Katina Magazine.

Deep Dive Into Three Academic Search Tools

• This May 2025 article, a companion to the article above, reviews the retrieval-augemented generation (RAG) tools in Primo Research Assistant, Web of Science Research Assistance, and Scopus AI. Authored by Aaron Tay; published and licensed CC-BY-NC by Katina Magazine.

Do the New AI Features in these Databases Actually Help Researchers?

• This September 2026 article presents a detailed review of the AI features and their functionality in EBSCO, ProQuest, and JSTOR interfaces. Authored by Aster Zhao; published and licensed CC-BY-NC by Katina Magazine.

Resources on Critical AI Literacy for Library Workers

OCUL Machine Learning and AI Report

•  This report, which comes out of a survey conducted by OCUL's AI and Machine Learning Program in 2025, captures library workers' thoughts on and familiarity with AI technologies.

Values-Aligned AI in Academic Libraries - Findings from the OCUL Focus Group Report

• This report summarizes feedback from focus groups held by OCUL's AIML Program. It provides an in-depth look at the ethical considerations, risks, and opportunities that library workers feel generative AI and machine learning tools offer, and highlights participants' desire for values-aligned AI tools and uses.

OCUL AI Tools for Academic Libraries

• This blog series, written by OCUL AI Program Manager Kari Williams, offers a practical look at and evaluations of various categories of generative AI tools and their usage in academic libraries. Topics include research assistants, time management optimizers, and transcription services. The series aims to empower library professionals to make informed, confident decisions about AI technologies.

Critical AI in Higher Education Toolkit

• This toolkit from the Library Freedom Project frames the conversation around ethical and environmental concerns about AI for those working in higher education and concerned about adoption of AI technologies without critical thought. It includes a section on AI in library vendor tools for library workers. Licensed CC-BY-NC by Library Freedom Project.

Futurescape Libraries AI Toolkit

• This toolkit is designed for leaders in research libraries who want to integrate the ARL/CNI AI Scenarios into ongoing planning activities, including annual operating plans, strategic reviews, or cross-institutional conversations. It contains reflection prompts, templates, and facilitator guidance for conversations, among other resources. Licensed CC-BY by Keith Webster and ARL/CNI.