At the American Association of Law Librarians (AALL) Conference in Portland, Oregon, a recurring theme surfaced: the evolving role of law librarians in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). As AI continues to infiltrate various sectors, including the legal field, it raises critical questions about the future functions and relevance of law librarians.

Traditionally, law librarians have been the gatekeepers of information, mastering complex cataloging systems like the Dewey Decimal System to guide legal professionals to the necessary resources. However, today’s digital transformation has shifted this landscape dramatically. The once physical repositories of books and periodicals are now digital databases navigated through sophisticated search engines and platforms. AI and natural language processing have democratized access to information, potentially sidelining the traditional role of the librarian.

Yet, the discussions at the AALL Conference suggest that rather than becoming obsolete, the role of law librarians is simply shifting. Today’s law librarians are less about guarding physical books and more about mastering digital tools. They are evolving from information custodians to experts in digital tool management, ensuring that these tools are used ethically, efficiently, and effectively.

The conference highlighted several future responsibilities for law librarians. These include understanding algorithmic bias, managing privacy and security issues, addressing the impact of AI on critical thinking, controlling the flow of misinformation, and tackling issues related to labor displacement. These roles underscore the necessity for law librarians to not only adapt to new technologies but also to become leaders in navigating these resources.

This transition mirrors historical shifts in other professions, such as photographers during the digital revolution. While the tools and mediums changed, the essence of photography and the need for skilled professionals to manage and innovate within the field remained. Similarly, law librarians are poised to remain invaluable by shifting their focus from managing collections of books to managing collections of digital tools and data.

Despite the transformative potential of AI, the essence of the law librarian’s role as a facilitator of knowledge remains unchanged. They are now tasked with ensuring that legal professionals understand and utilize AI tools responsibly and effectively. In a sense, law librarians are not facing obsolescence but rather an important evolution of their roles.

As technology continues to advance, law librarians will need to keep pace, ensuring their skills and knowledge are up-to-date. This is not just about survival but about thriving in a new digital ecosystem where their expertise is crucial. The future might look different for law librarians, but it is one where they continue to play a critical role in the legal profession.