By Gofaone Motsamai
A robot powered by artificial intelligence (AI) has made its debut as the newest library assistant at the North-West University (NWU).
The AI-powered assistant, currently in its testing phase at the Ferdinand Postma Library at the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus, is designed to help students navigate the library, making it easier and quicker for them to find what they need. This is a major step forward in modernising the NWU’s campus libraries and enhancing student experience.
According to Cecil Gasa, manager for library systems, the AI assistant provides real-time navigation assistance, guiding students to specific sections, answering basic queries and offering details about library resources and operating hours.
People-friendly machine
"One of the main advantages is its ability to attract bystanders more effectively than a human assistant. Students tend to interact more comfortably with the robot, which allows our staff to focus on higher-value activities," Cecil explains.
Beyond navigation assistance, the robot contributes to the library's marketing efforts by engaging with visitors and promoting available services.
The introduction of the AI assistant has also helped alleviate the workload of library staff. "While still in the testing phase, we anticipate that the robot will free up time for staff members to handle more complex inquiries and provide personalised assistance where needed," Cecil notes.
As the robot was only introduced in mid-March, the library has yet to receive substantial feedback from students. However, library staff are monitoring student interactions closely to refine the robot’s functionality based on user needs.
What’s in store for the other campuses?
Looking ahead, the NWU is exploring the possibility of introducing similar AI assistants at the Mahikeng and Vanderbijlpark campuses. "Once the Potchefstroom testing phase is complete and refined, we will consider expanding the initiative. However, there is no concrete timeline for implementation at other campuses yet," says Cecil.
The university is taking an iterative approach - by introducing improvements based on library users’ feedback - to developing the AI assistant, employing a methodology commonly used in agile development and product management. Future enhancements may include integrating the robot with academic systems to assist students with research-related queries.
"Our goal is to ensure that the robot evolves in a manner that meets user needs while minimising risks and maximising efficiency,” says Cecil. “By incorporating user feedback, we can continuously improve its capabilities over time."
The AI assistant library robot at the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus.
