Examining AI-Assisted Digital Preservation Systems: Impact on Archival Decision-Making, Content Selection, and Long-Term Access in Special Collections

Abstract

This study examined the impact that the application of AI-based digital preservation systems can have on the decision-making process, selection of content and exclusive access to the archival sources in special collections in Pakistan. The researcher adopted mixed-methods research design and collected data on 150 archivists, librarians, and other information professionals working in libraries, museums, and other culture institutions in Indonesia and Pakistan, namely, Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta. Online structured survey and virtual semi structured interviews were used to collect data on 25 senior archivists. Quantitative data analysis was performed on the SPSS-V-26 software and descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and chi-square tests, and qualitative one on the thematic analysis. It was established that the AI-assisted systems proved to be significantly more effective at the archival workflow with the help of metadata quality, and also assisted in finding the content. However, the biasing of algorithms applied in content selection, lack of adequate technical infrastructure, inadequate training, and lack of professional autonomy in decision-making process were the issues. The study identified five main themes such as barriers to technological integration, professional role redefinition, quality versus automation, and ethical considerations of utilizing AI as well as resource limitations. The findings have shown that even though AI technologies have the major potential related to the digital preservation, implementation is to be supported by the strategic planning, building of professional skills, and the possibility to take into account the ethical issues associated with the implemented solution to ensure the equal access and integrity of arches in the Pakistani special collections.