ALA Council Adopts Guidance on Artificial Intelligence Use in Libraries

The American Library Association (ALA) has taken a significant step towards helping libraries navigate the complex landscape of artificial intelligence. The ALA Council has adopted ‘Guidance on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Libraries’, a comprehensive resource designed to support librarians in developing and revising policies for the ethical, human-centered use of AI.

The guidance was developed by the 30-member Artificial Intelligence Policy Working Group, which consisted of members from across the association. Formed at the 2025 Annual Conference in Philadelphia, the working group brought together experts with diverse perspectives to consider the practical, philosophical, and operational implications of AI for libraries and library workers.

According to ALA President Dr. Maria McCauley, ‘Artificial intelligence is shaping the information landscape, and this guidance from ALA reflects both innovation and the values at the heart of librarianship.’ The document aims to provide a practical starting point for approaching AI responsibly, ethically, and with people at its center.

The adopted guidance affirms ALA’s role in supporting libraries of all types as they adapt to emerging technologies while maintaining a humanistic approach to library service. It gives library workers a values-based foundation for creating, revising, and explaining local AI policies as technology, vendor practices, community needs, and library responsibilities evolve.

Recognizing the increasing importance of AI in library operations, the guidance acknowledges that libraries need adaptable policies to guide implementation now and in the future. To support library workers in interpreting this new resource, ALA will offer virtual training sessions to provide an overview of the guidance and discuss key considerations for libraries.

The adopted guidance is intended as a living document that will be updated regularly to reflect changes in technology, law, professional practice, and community needs. The Information Technology Advisory Committee (ITAC) has been tasked with stewarding this guidance, monitoring developments in AI, and proposing future revisions to the Council as needed.

ALA currently offers a range of publications exploring the evaluation, impact, and implementation of AI in libraries from various angles. These resources are available for purchase through the ALA store, while additional materials can be found on the association’s website.