Disciplinary Responses to Generative AI: Implications for Academic Librarians

Abstract: This paper investigates the emerging integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) into various academic disciplines and the implications for academic librarians. As GenAI capabilities expand rapidly, higher education faculty are exploring ways to incorporate this technology into teaching and learning. The paper reviews published literature across three disciplines: art, English composition and writing, and mathematics. Common themes emerge around using GenAI for tasks such as brainstorming ideas, providing feedback, translation, and accessibility support. However, the specific applications tend to align with the core values and ways of thinking in each discipline. The paper argues that for academic librarians to effectively support students and faculty, they need to understand these disciplinary contexts. The paper provides an overview of the current disciplinary conversations to inform how academic librarians can adjust their work accordingly.