College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences News

Building Bridges: Sharing UNM’s Expertise on AI and Libraries in Hong Kong

Dear Friends,

This November, I had the extraordinary honor of representing the University of New Mexico on a professional and deeply meaningful journey to Hong Kong. As Dean of the College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences, I was invited to share the work we are doing in AI literacy, workforce upskilling, and the evolving role of libraries at the Global AI Forum 2024, hosted by Times Higher Education. In addition, I had the privilege of delivering talks at three of Hong Kong’s leading institutions: The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), The University of Hong Kong (HKU), and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).

This trip underscored the transformative role of libraries in shaping the future of education and technology. While my visit focused on sharing UNM’s story and innovations, I was equally inspired by the incredible work happening in Hong Kong libraries, where forward-thinking projects are setting new benchmarks in the field.

Highlighting UNM’s Leadership

At each institution, I shared insights on UNM’s growing role in addressing critical issues in higher education, including:

• AI Literacy: Equipping students, faculty, and communities with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven world.
• Workforce Upskilling: Leveraging libraries to prepare students for high-demand careers while addressing the digital divide.
• Ethical Awareness: Promoting responsible use of technology and fostering critical thinking in AI applications.

At CUHK, I spoke about UNM’s work in turning libraries into hubs for innovation and opportunity. Their librarians were particularly interested in how we are integrating AI tools into workforce development and addressing the unique challenges of under-resourced communities.

At HKU, I shared UNM’s strategies for empowering users with AI resources and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Our AI literacy initiatives, emphasizing practical applications and ethical awareness, sparked valuable conversations about how libraries can support lifelong learning.

At HKUST, I reflected on our approach to integrating AI into library services, particularly in ways that ensure accessibility and inclusivity. This resonated with their mission of preparing students for the future through innovative and interdisciplinary approaches.

The discussions made it clear that UNM is seen as a forward-thinking institution on the global stage, with a commitment to tackling the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

Learning from Hong Kong: Innovation in Action

While my primary role was to share UNM’s story, I left Hong Kong deeply inspired by the extraordinary work being done in their libraries. These institutions are at the forefront of innovation, blending technology with cultural stewardship and education in ways that resonate globally.

• At CUHK Libraries, I was struck by their AI-driven facial recognition tools, which are creating digital networks that connect archival records with Hong Kong’s literary history. This project goes beyond preservation—it transforms cultural heritage into a living, accessible resource for students and researchers. Their maker spaces and professional-grade video studios provide students with hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for real-world challenges.
• HKU Libraries demonstrated how technology can transform library services. AI-powered chatbots and occupancy tracking tools make libraries more accessible and user-friendly, while their workshops on AI literacy provide students and faculty with practical skills to integrate AI into their academic and professional lives. Their use of graph neural networks for personalized book recommendations was a particularly impressive example of leveraging AI to enhance the user experience.
• At HKUST Library, their emphasis on practical AI applications reflects a deep commitment to student success. Their work in AI-assisted cataloging and interdisciplinary teaching demonstrates how libraries can be at the center of educational transformation.

What unites these projects is a shared vision of libraries as hubs for innovation, creativity, and learning. The work being done in Hong Kong serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible when libraries embrace their role as catalysts for change.

Bringing Lessons Home to New Mexico

This experience has reaffirmed my belief in the vital role libraries play in addressing the challenges and opportunities of the AI era. At UNM, we have an opportunity to build on these global lessons and adapt them to our unique context.

Imagine UNM Libraries as a space where:

• Students from rural communities use advanced AI tools to tackle local challenges.
• Faculty leverage cutting-edge technology to conduct groundbreaking research.
• New Mexicans access resources and training that prepare them for careers in an AI-driven economy.

By investing in AI literacy and workforce development, we can ensure that New Mexico not only keeps pace with global innovation but leads in creating inclusive, community-driven solutions.

Why Libraries Matter Now More Than Ever

Libraries are more than spaces for study—they are engines of opportunity, places where ideas are born, and futures are shaped. The conversations I had in Hong Kong made it clear that libraries are uniquely positioned to address some of the most pressing issues of our time, from bridging the digital divide to fostering ethical innovation.

At UNM, we are committed to ensuring that our libraries serve as a force for good in New Mexico and beyond. By continuing to innovate and collaborate, we can create programs that empower students, support faculty, and uplift communities.

Help Us Lead the Way

To bring these ideas to life, we need your support. Together, we can:

• Expand access to cutting-edge tools and resources that prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.
• Create programs that address workforce challenges in under-resourced communities.
• Preserve and promote New Mexico’s cultural heritage through innovative stewardship initiatives.

Your partnership can help us transform our libraries into hubs of innovation and inclusion, ensuring that UNM continues to make a difference for students, New Mexico, and the world.

Thank you for your belief in the power of education and for supporting the work we do to advance New Mexico. Together, we can shape a brighter future.

Warm regards,
Leo Lo
Dean, College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences
University of New Mexico