ChatGPT not Useful as a Tool to Streamline Library Cataloguing Processes

Abstract

A Review of: Brzustowicz, R. (2023). From ChatGPT to CatGPT: The Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Library Cataloging. Information Technology and Libraries, 42(3). https://doi.org/10.5860/ital.v42i3.16295 Objective – To evaluate the potential of ChatGPT as a tool for improving efficiency and accuracy in cataloguing library records. Design – Observational, descriptive study. Setting – Online, using ChatGPT and the WorldCat catalogue. Subject – The Large Language Model (LLM) ChatGPT. Methods – Prompting ChatGPT to create MARC records for items in different formats and languages and comparing the ChatGPT derived records versus those obtained from the WorldCat catalogue. Main results – ChatGPT was able to generate MARC records, but the accuracy of the records was questionable, despite the authors’ claims. Conclusion – Based on the results of this study, the author concludes that using ChatGPT to streamline the process of cataloging could allow library staff to focus time and energy on other types of work. However, the results presented suggest that ChatGPT introduces significant errors in the MARC records created, thereby requiring additional time for cataloguers to correct the error-laden records. The author correctly stresses that if ChatGPT were used to assist with cataloguing, it would remain important for professionals to check the records for completion and accuracy.