OCLC has added powerful new AI features to its WorldShare Record Manager and Connexion cataloging applications. These updates help catalogers by automatically suggesting classification numbers and subject headings, saving time and improving accuracy. The system draws on WorldCat data—built from hundreds of millions of library records—to make these intelligent recommendations.
Catalogers stay in full control. Each library can customize settings to decide which suggestions to see, and catalogers can choose to accept or ignore them. Their choices help improve future recommendations, making the system smarter for everyone. This aligns with OCLC’s belief in being human-centered www.oclc.org/en/artificial-intelligence.html , with technology amplifying human experience rather than replacing it.
In pilot testing with libraries, catalogers reported saving up to 20 minutes per title. Many described the new AI tools as a helpful "safety net" that catches missed details and ensures records are more complete.
This innovation is part of OCLC's broader effort to apply AI responsibly across its services. OCLC already uses AI to identify duplicate records in WorldCat, provide reading recommendations on WorldCat.org, and speed up resource sharing by connecting users to the best available copies.
More about how OCLC is using AI to support libraries and enhance discovery is on the web page.
For more information, read the press release.