The pilot project emphasizes hands-on student learning by fostering engagement in real-world metadata tasks within library settings. Student employees tackle subject enrichment, vocabulary mapping, and collection evaluation using AI-assisted workflows, developing critical thinking and professional judgment. The initiative aims to enhance understanding of AI’s limitations and ethical responsibilities in cultural heritage work. According to Ng, students are encouraged to analyze AI outputs, enabling deeper reflection and reasoning rather than fostering dependence on technology. By creating an adaptable, lightweight, AI-supported metadata workflow, the project addresses the needs of both large institutions and smaller, under-resourced organizations, promoting equitable access to digital resources. Virginia Tech positions itself as a leader in responsible AI applications in libraries, facilitating community engagement and reducing barriers to metadata remediation. Ultimately, the project aims to showcase how AI can support human expertise, ensuring local histories are represented within national digital ecosystems, while enhancing skills for emerging professionals.
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