Novosibirsk Scientists Develop Platform to Automate Operations of Siberia’s Largest Research Library

Book Discovery Made Easier

Researchers from the Artificial Intelligence Center at Novosibirsk State University (NSU) have developed an AI/ML framework that streamlines dataset management and model testing. This technology lays the groundwork for future smart‑city systems intended to improve urban efficiency and quality of life across Russia.

The project was unveiled at the Golden Valley research and production forum, hosted by NSU, where developers presented their new collaboration with the State Public Scientific and Technical Library (GPNTB)—the largest library in Siberia. The framework has already been integrated into GPNTB’s operations, allowing staff to better process structured datasets and use AI models for managing bibliographic records.

Automating Routine Tasks

The platform has been loaded with digitized catalog cards, annotated data, and an AI model capable of recognizing both the cards themselves and the structure of bibliographic entries. The AI team at NSU built the model in‑house. Next, they plan to introduce an algorithm that will scan newly acquired books and automatically extract complete bibliographic data—removing this burden from library employees.

This IT solution is expected to drastically simplify how new catalog entries are generated. The framework is already being transferred to the customer for full-scale deployment. Everyday visitors will benefit as well: the platform makes searching for books published before the year 2000 far faster and more intuitive.

“For example, it once took me about half an hour to find a book about Al‑Khwarizmi published in Tashkent in 1968. And that was because I was highly motivated. Today’s users won’t always spend 30 minutes looking for one book. Our framework simplifies the process dramatically—you’ll be able to locate the right book or article much faster and without relying on specialists.”

Evgeny Pavlovsky

senior researcher at NSU’s Artificial Intelligence Center and PhD in Physics and Mathematics

The transformation is especially significant for GPNTB, a major national information center that hosts the Book Museum, a professional education division, the Siberian Regional Center for Document Conservation, and a multifaceted patent-information hub. Demand for its collections and services continues to grow.

A Meaningful Step Toward Limitless Knowledge

The AI framework developed at NSU demonstrates how modern AI/ML tools can automate repetitive tasks, analyze vast data volumes, and improve scientific research infrastructure. Platforms like this will make libraries more accessible for everyday readers while making archival workflows clearer and more transparent.

Russia’s active deployment of digital tools in science and culture will help citizens gain new knowledge without bureaucratic delays. It will also expand access to scientific and technical information for researchers nationwide.

Strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure and reducing barriers to scientific literature access remain key national priorities. Scientific and technological development is one of Russia’s strategic goals, as outlined in the Presidential Decree on the Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development.

Looking ahead, Russian researchers envision integrating the platform with national catalogs, digital archives, and open-access systems. The AI-based product could be adopted by other regional libraries and, eventually, even international knowledge networks.