Libby’s AI Book Discovery Feature Sparks Debate Among Readers and Librarians

Libby, the popular library e-book and audiobook app, has introduced a new AI-powered feature called “Inspire Me,” sparking mixed reactions from users and librarians. While the tool aims to enhance book discovery, some readers and library professionals are expressing concern about the integration of artificial intelligence into a platform they value for its simplicity and human-centered approach. The “Inspire Me” feature lets users generate personalized book recommendations by entering prompts or drawing from their previously saved titles. To use it, readers tap on the “Inspire Me” option on the app’s home screen, select their preferred genre—fiction or nonfiction—and then refine suggestions using filters like age range, content tone, or specific themes. For example, users can request books with “spine-tingling” suspense or “amusing” humor, or explore niche ideas like “dark humor about modern family dysfunction” or “time travelers rescue dragons from medieval knights.” The app then displays five titles that match the user’s prompt and are available in their local library’s digital collection. Overdrive, the company behind Libby, emphasizes that the recommendations are based solely on the library’s existing holdings and prioritize books that can be borrowed immediately. While the feature represents a relatively basic application of AI, it has drawn criticism from some users and librarians who worry about the growing presence of AI in public services. Concerns include the potential for algorithmic bias, the erosion of personal, human-driven discovery, and privacy risks tied to AI systems. In response, Overdrive has clarified its AI policy, stating that the company does not collect “inessential personal information” and that user data is not shared with third parties or AI models. When users provide saved tags to guide recommendations, the AI only receives the titles—not any personal details, device information, or tag descriptions. Overdrive insists the feature is not meant to replace human judgment or librarian expertise. Instead, it’s designed to complement the work of librarians by helping patrons explore their library’s collections more efficiently. “Inspire Me uses responsible AI integration to help patrons dive deeper into the incredible catalogs their local libraries have curated,” said Jen Leitman, OverDrive’s chief marketing officer. “By surfacing titles that align with what readers are searching for, Inspire Me helps patrons discover more of the books their libraries have already invested in. It’s not about replacing human insight, it’s about making discovery easier, smarter, and more intuitive.” The feature was initially soft-launched earlier this month, accessible via the search term “#InspireMe” in the app. Now officially rolling out, all Libby users can expect to see the “Inspire Me” option in their app by September.