Clarivate Plc has published its latest findings in the “Pulse of the Library 2025” report, which sheds light on how libraries around the world are responding to the rapid advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). The report is based on insights gathered from over 2,000 librarians from academic, national, and public libraries across the globe.
Released on October 30, 2025, the report indicates that there has been a notable increase in AI adoption within libraries, with 67% of those surveyed either exploring or implementing AI tools. This marks a rise from 63% in 2024. Although many libraries are still in the preliminary stages of evaluation, those that have begun implementing AI report a growing sense of optimism as they progress.
The report reveals a correlation between AI literacy and the successful implementation of AI technologies in libraries. Specifically, libraries that include AI literacy in their formal training programs are more likely to be in moderate or advanced stages of implementation. About 28% of these libraries have integrated AI literacy into onboarding processes, while 23.3% allocate dedicated time and resources for its development. Additionally, 24.2% of librarians report that managerial support significantly boosts their confidence in AI adoption.
Oren Beit-Arie, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Innovation at Clarivate, commented on the report”s findings, stating, “Our second Pulse of the Library report points to growing maturity in library approaches to AI, and an increase in the number of early adopters since last year. It also underscores the importance of offering AI literacy and professional development.” He emphasized that libraries investing in AI literacy are better positioned to utilize AI for improving operational efficiencies, thereby freeing up time for strategic and creative pursuits.
The report also highlights regional disparities in AI adoption. For instance, libraries in Asia and Europe exhibit higher rates of AI implementation, with 37% to 40% at initial stages or beyond, compared to only 14% to 16% in 2024. Conversely, libraries in the United States lag behind, displaying the lowest levels of optimism regarding AI”s potential benefits, with only 7% expressing confidence, compared to 27% to 31% in regions such as Asia and Mainland China.
Furthermore, the report reveals differences in perceptions among library staff. Senior librarians tend to focus more on operational efficiencies as a primary goal for implementing AI technologies, and they also express greater confidence in their understanding of AI terminology. In fact, 43% of senior librarians rated their confidence as a 4 or 5 on a scale of 1 to 5, whereas only 36% of junior librarians felt the same.
Despite the progress in AI adoption, budget constraints remain a significant challenge for many libraries. Geopolitical pressures are affecting funding and collection resources, with half of the respondents from the U.S. and North America anticipating cuts to their collections.
John Chrastka, Executive Director at EveryLibrary, remarked, “Librarians play a leading role in sharing knowledge and building connections within their communities. This report will help support library and information professionals worldwide as they navigate challenges and opportunities.” The “Pulse of the Library 2025” report serves as a valuable resource for libraries aiming to maximize the benefits of AI in their operations.
The survey was conducted online from June to July 2025, in collaboration with Library Journal, and was accessible in multiple languages to ensure broad participation. A total of 2,032 responses were analyzed, maintaining demographic consistency with previous surveys.
For additional insights and recommendations based on the report, interested parties can explore the full findings online.
