Intelligent agent concepts in the modern library

Abstract

PurposeIntelligent agents – software components designed to perform complex tasks for the user (with or without the presence of the user) – are used in a variety of settings, from instant messaging and web auctions, to ATM network management and air traffic control systems. The technology also has applicability within libraries, adding a level of user‐oriented control and flexibility to activities such as digital collection management and virtual reference. The use of intelligent agents to assist users with their searches has perhaps the greatest potential. The purpose of this article is to provide background information on the use of agent technology in information settings, and review three library‐based projects that utilize agent technology in a practical way.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive literature review combined with brief case studies of practical applications of agent technology in three modern library settings. A conceptual model of a virtual, agent‐based personalized library is also presented.FindingsLibrarians and others in the information profession recognize the potential of agent technology within the library setting. The paper presents a number of practical scenarios for using agents, from supporting digital libraries and teaching information literacy to virtual reference.Practical implicationsThere are numerous implications for current and future use of agent technology in libraries, including how to engage IT staff in the development process, how to educate users about the benefits of the technology, and how to make sure library professionals have the skill set to allow them to participate in the conceptualization, design and implementation of agents.Originality/valueThere is a wealth of professional literature on agent technology and its uses, mostly from a computing or engineering perspective. This paper has value in that it presents the concept from a library perspective, and includes references to relevant library literature and projects.

The application of intelligent agents in libraries: a survey

“…A number of framework, concept models or architecture have been proposed for the adoption of intelligent agents in the library context, but only some of them have been implemented in practical environments. Adopting new architecture to a library needs fundamental changes to the library structure and systems and has both technical and social implications for the libraries and users (Dent, 2007). It might be more realistic to apply them in a brand new library rather than an existing one.…”

“…Wooldridge and Jennings (1995) describe an agent as a computer system that is "either conceptualised or implemented using concepts that are more usually applied to humans" (p. 5). Although no definition for intelligent agents has been universally accepted (Dent, 2007), there is a broad consensus that agents should have the property of autonomy. They may also have other attributes, such as social ability, reactivity, pro-activeness, rationality and mobility, etc.…”

Library 3.0

“…Library intelligent systems facilitate natural language processing, mapping of free-text terms to controlled vocabulary used by common library tools such as indexes, and flexible and heuristic retrieval strategies (Bailey, 1991;Wahono, 2000). Intelligent library systems make libraries more interactive, accurate and user-friendly (Dent, 2007). Intelligent library systems enable library users working in the 3.0 environment to retrieve information easily, based on what they need -not necessarily on how they may express the need.…”

“…An agent is a software programme that gathers information or performs some other service without the immediate presence of the user (Dent, 2007). An agent is a software programme that gathers information or performs some other service without the immediate presence of the user (Dent, 2007).…”

“…Intelligent conversational agents can also be used to enhance face-to-face interaction between users and library services. This can be accomplished in conjunction with course management software such as Blackboard or WebCT (Dent, 2007). Intelligent agents can also provide customer relation services in libraries and answer frequently asked questions.…”