“Through the looking glass: envisioning new library technologies” – an inflection point for social media and the open web? Part 2

Abstract

Purpose This is the second installment in a series of two columns that delves into several factors, suggesting that the structure of the internet may be approaching an inflection point. Design/methodology/approach Building upon the themes explored in the first column, it investigates how contradictory incentives in artificial intelligence (AI) may influence the future of web search and the open web, as well as lessons that can be learned from the evolution of X-like social media sites. A large language model was used to help rewrite and edit portions of the text. Findings This exploration shows how the intersection of demographic shifts, advertising-driven content, proactive discovery and advancements in AI are poised to rapidly change the way we use and search the internet. Originality/value A deeper understanding of these trends empowers libraries to reflect on their evolving roles within this shifting internet landscape and envision new possibilities for themselves.