The impact of artificial intelligence on Sri Lanka libraries: an interview with Premila Gamage
Premila Gamage, Anna Maria Tammaro · Digital Library Perspectives · 2025
Sri Lanka boasts a rich tradition of libraries that dates back to the 5th century AD, reflecting its long-standing commitment to knowledge and cultural preservation. The modern library movement in Sri Lanka began with the British occupation in 1815, laying the foundation for the organized library systems seen today. The country now has a well-established public library system complemented by a diverse network of school, research, academic, government and NGO libraries. These institutions collectively play a critical role in promoting education, research and cultural heritage across the nation.The National Library of Sri Lanka provides detailed insights into this ecosystem through its “Statistical Handbook on Libraries in Sri Lanka,” which offers comprehensive data on various types of libraries at district and provincial levels. Sri Lanka had approximately 1,176 libraries operating nationwide, reflecting the breadth of its library network. As the libraries continue to embrace digital tools and explore AI integration, they are positioning themselves as pivotal institutions for fostering knowledge, innovation and community engagement in Sri Lanka.We interviewed Premila Gamage, a distinguished librarian and member of the Editorial Board of Digital Library Perspectives, on digital transformation and AI adoption for library services in Sri Lanka.She is a consultant at Verité Research Institute, an independent think tank providing strategic analysis on economics, politics, law and media in Asia. Her expertise spans a wide range of organizations, including the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), the Access to Learning Award of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Commonwealth of Learning’s Skills for Work Programme and the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation’s INELI South Asia Programme. She has also contributed to the National Centre for Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences and the Sri Lanka Library Association.Gamage has played a pivotal role as a mentor in the International Network of Emerging Library Innovators (INELI) Program for South Asia, fostering innovation among emerging library professionals. Her leadership extended to the IFLA Public Library Policies Project, where she spearheaded the national initiative in Sri Lanka, aimed at evaluating policymakers’ perspectives on the role, value and impact of public library services. In addition, her efforts to highlight how libraries in the Asia and Oceania region support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals have been instrumental in showcasing the transformative power of libraries in addressing community needs.As an Accredited Trainer for IFLA, Premila has conducted workshops across countries such as Lebanon, India, Nepal and ASEAN nations, focusing on leadership, technology adoption and capacity building for librarians.With her extensive contributions both locally and internationally, we spoke with Premila Gamage to gain insights into the state of digital transformation in Sri Lanka, the challenges and opportunities of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in libraries and the potential of open-source tools and Web-based innovations to advance library services. Her profound understanding of global trends, combined with her expertise in local contexts, positions her as a valuable authority on how libraries can embrace modern technological advancements while effectively addressing the needs of their communities:In Sri Lanka, the extent of digital transformation varies significantly across different types of libraries. Most academic and research libraries have implemented basic automation, focusing primarily on cataloging and circulation services. These libraries also maintain Online Public Access Catalogs (OPACs) and, in many cases, institutional repositories. However, the content within these repositories is not always fully accessible. For instance, while repositories may host thesis and dissertation collections, the full texts are often not available for open access.Public and school libraries, on the other hand, lag significantly behind in digital transformation. A substantial number of these libraries have yet to automate even basic services like cataloging and circulation. The National Library of Sri Lanka has made notable strides by maintaining both an OPAC and a repository. Compared to other institutions, the National Library’s repository is relatively open, offering greater accessibility to its digital content. However, overall progress in the broader library ecosystem remains uneven, with many institutions still in the early stages of digital adoption:The adaptation of libraries in Sri Lanka to digital technologies has been gradual and limited, with most efforts concentrated on traditional services. The automation of cataloging and circulation services is widespread among academic and research libraries. Some have incorporated technology into Inter-Library Loan (ILL) and document delivery services, facilitating access to digital or scanned copies of requested materials. However, these advancements are not universally applied, and many libraries, particularly public and school libraries, still operate without even basic automation. The primary use of technology in libraries remains confined to traditional services like cataloging and document delivery, with limited exploration of emerging technologies that could significantly enhance information services.Only a handful of university libraries have taken steps to introduce students to more advanced technologies, such as AI tools for conducting literature reviews. Despite these initiatives, the overall pace of adaptation has been slow. This slow progress underscores the need for a more strategic approach to digital transformation across all types of libraries in Sri Lanka:Barriers to the adoption of advanced technologies like AI in Sri Lankan libraries extend beyond financial limitations, though these remain a significant challenge. Many university libraries already have designated librarians responsible for technology and related services, yet meaningful advancements in implementing AI tools have been limited.Two major factors contribute to this stagnation. The first is a skills mismatch, where library personnel often lack the technical expertise necessary to understand, implement or manage AI-driven tools effectively. This gap in knowledge prevents libraries from fully leveraging technological advancements. The second is the prevalence of negative attitudes among library staff, where resistance to change and skepticism about the value of new technologies act as significant impediments. These attitudes may stem from a lack of exposure to AI’s practical benefits or concerns about job security in an increasingly automated environment.Overcoming these barriers will require a concerted effort to provide targeted training, foster leadership support and highlight successful AI applications in libraries:Digital transformation plays a pivotal role in paving the way for AI adoption in libraries. It forms the backbone of any effort to modernize and aligns library services with the demands of the digital age.Beyond being essential for survival, digital transformation creates the infrastructure and mindset needed to embrace AI. Digitizing collections and automating processes, for instance, establish the groundwork for deploying AI applications like advanced search systems, personalized recommendations or automated cataloging. These transformations not only enhance service quality but also familiarize library staff with the tools and workflows necessary for further innovation. By embedding digital transformation into their strategies, libraries ensure they are well-positioned to adopt AI as a natural and logical extension of their modernization efforts, aligning with global trends and user expectations:One of the most promising areas for immediate AI application in Sri Lankan libraries is cataloging, particularly for local language publications. AI-driven tools, such as natural language processing algorithms, can automate and enhance the cataloging process by efficiently recognizing and organizing content in Sinhala and Tamil. This would significantly reduce the time and effort required for manual cataloging while improving the discoverability of regional and indigenous knowledge resources.AI could also make a substantial difference in information retrieval. Intelligent search systems powered by machine learning can deliver more precise and contextually relevant results, enhancing user experiences. Similarly, user services can benefit from AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants, which can handle routine queries, guide users in navigating digital collections and provide 24/7 support:Educating stakeholders about the tangible benefits of digital transformation is crucial. I usually start by emphasizing both the short-term advantages, such as improved operational efficiency and user engagement and the long-term gains, including enhanced accessibility, sustainability and alignment with global library standards.As a consultant, I highlight difficulties users face in finding and accessing resources, both internal and external, and demonstrate how these issues hinder libraries productivity and user satisfaction. Real-world examples and case studies help me to illustrate the gap between the current state and a more digitally advanced system.The transition should begin by leveraging the organization’s existing infrastructure to minimize costs. For instance, open-source tools and cloud-based platforms can be integrated into current workflows to achieve significant improvements at a low cost. The focus should be on incremental changes, such as automating repetitive tasks or digitizing high-demand resources, to build confidence and demonstrate value early in the transformation process.By aligning digital transformation goals with the library’s mission and user needs and by showing that such initiatives are feasible and sustainable even with limited resources, I try to guide libraries to embrace and sustain a digitally advanced future.My starting point is that understanding user needs always requires surveys. I aim to illustrate the current challenges in accessing knowledge provided by libraries and external commercial organizations. Through concrete examples, I explain to librarians and administrators the short- and long-term benefits of digital transformation, emphasizing how these can be achieved using the organization’s existing infrastructure, often with minimal cost:The need to address skill mismatches and prepare students and librarians for future challenges is paramount. To achieve this, institutions offering Library and Information Science courses in Sri Lanka should undertake a comprehensive revision of their curricula and evaluation methods. These revisions should emphasize AI literacy, digital tools and practical applications in library services. Building a pool of skilled lecturers and trainers is equally critical, as they will be instrumental in delivering the updated curriculum effectively.For practicing librarians, acquiring relevant skills and introducing AI-driven tools into their workflows is essential. Even small enhancements to existing services, such as personalized recommendation systems or automated literature reviews, can demonstrate immediate value. These implementations should be monitored for tangible results, which can then be leveraged for advocacy efforts.My strategy is to highlight the potential impact of libraries. I share success stories and data-driven results with higher authorities, partners and stakeholders. The impact highlighted by case study evaluations will help me to build a compelling case for the potential of AI in transforming library services.Gradually scaling these initiatives, while reinvesting the benefits of early successes into more complex projects, libraries can overcome the challenges posed by limited infrastructure and budgets. This iterative process builds confidence among librarians and stakeholders, ensuring broader support for AI adoption over time:Introducing AI in a resource-constrained environment requires a strategic, phased approach. Training librarians in fundamental AI concepts and practical skills is a crucial starting point. Workshops and hands-on demonstrations of freely available tools, such as AI-powered tools or document summarizers, can showcase how these technologies enhance day-to-day library tasks.To keep initial implementations manageable, I usually focus on basic services. For example, AI tools can streamline literature searches, automate citation generation or provide basic text analysis for academic researchers. These applications are not only cost-effective but also demonstrate immediate, measurable improvements in service delivery:Sri Lankan libraries, particularly academic and research institutions, appear prepared to experiment with AI, thanks to their familiarity with open-source tools like Koha for library management and DSpace for repositories. These technologies form a solid foundation for integrating AI-driven solutions, such as enhanced search algorithms, recommendation engines and virtual assistants. In addition, academic libraries demonstrate a natural inclination toward innovation, motivated by the need to improve services for students and researchers.However, to fully embrace AI, libraries in Sri Lanka need focused preparation. Training programs are essential to equip librarians with the skills necessary to manage and use AI effectively. This includes understanding data management, machine learning principles and the ethical considerations of AI adoption. Concurrently, improving infrastructure is critical. Libraries must ensure they have the technological resources, including adequate internet bandwidth and computational capabilities, to support AI applications. Collaborative efforts can also play a significant role, where libraries form networks to share tools, expertise and data.Awareness-building among decision-makers and stakeholders is another vital step. As a consultant, I must advocate for the strategic advantages of AI, using pilot projects and case studies to demonstrate its tangible benefits. Partnerships with local and international organizations, as well as participation in the open-source community, can further facilitate AI integration by providing technical support and additional resources:As a consultant, I wish to play a transformative role in this process. By conducting training and capacity-building programs, I hope to enhance librarians’ skills and confidence in using AI tools. My idea is that supporting the implementation of AI tools and providing technical expertise will help ensure a seamless transition.Advocacy programs are also crucial for me in influencing policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize AI adoption in library strategies. Moreover, showcasing successful examples of impact achieved from other international contexts in the Asia and Oceania Area can inspire local adoption while securing resources and funding to sustain these initiatives.Bridging the gap between digital transformation and AI adoption in Sri Lanka involves improving and maintaining the IFLA international framework for experimentation, collaboration and capacity building, ultimately enabling libraries to align with global advancements while meeting the needs of their local communities.