Text Shot: One of the library’s major projects is Collections Explorer, a developing system that uses semantic search to allow users to find materials across Harvard’s special collections. Unlike traditional keyword-based searches, the tools allow researchers to search using natural language and can surface relevant materials even when specific terms do not appear directly in catalog descriptions.
The system is still in development and has not yet been widely released. Since early testing began, the library has worked with more than 150 Harvard students to evaluate the platform and gather feedback on its usability.
Another initiative focuses on integrating library search capabilities directly into AI chat tools. A technology known as model context protocol could allow platforms such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude, or Harvard’s AI Sandbox to link users directly to Harvard Library materials when answering questions.
Harvard Library Tests AI Tools to Help Researchers Navigate Collections | News | The Harvard Crimson www.thecrimson.com/article/2026/3… #AI #libraries #search