The University of Virginia Library was pleased to welcome Leo Lo as University Librarian and Dean of Libraries in September of this year. The Cavalier Daily, UVA’s student-run news outlet, talked to Dr. Lo in early October about his hopes for the future and experience so far at UVA.
See an excerpt below, and read the full story from the Cavalier Daily:
Leo Lo began his tenure Sept. 15 as University Dean of Libraries, and, as announced at the Board of Visitors Academic and Student Life Committee, Advisor to the Provost for Artificial Intelligence Literacy. As he enters his position as Dean of Libraries, Lo said his central priority is preparing the University’s libraries for the rapid changes AI will bring, likening the technology to the internet’s arrival decades ago.
“When the internet first came out, it changed the library world completely,” Lo said. “I can see AI doing similar things to us … We have to be ready to help you, to help the faculty as well.”
The article continues:
A major part of this preparation, Lo said, is ensuring that students and faculty can conduct ethical and responsible research. He emphasized that libraries must teach users how to verify information and take ownership of their work, particularly in a time where AI is becoming more prevalent.
Finally, Lo added some hopes for the future:
“We want you to think of us as part of your journey, and not just come here to borrow a book or use a desk to study,” Lo said. “It’s funny how much people can learn when you have someone actively walking you through it.”