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AI characters as library guides

T HE following conversation took place at the Metaverse Experience Hall of the Beijing Library: “Mr Lu Xun, could you recommend one of your classic works?” “If I were to suggest one, perhaps Call to Arms would be a good starting point…” Supported by artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, the hall offers visitors a novel approach to immersive reading and knowledge-based social engagement. As one of three institutions under the Capital Library of China, the Beijing Library has introduced an AI powered digital human modelled after renowned Chinese writer Lu Xun. Historically, Lu Xun played a role in establishing the predecessor of the Capital Library of China. Today, his digital incarnation symbolises the library’s digital transformation. “We developed the digital Lu Xun using AI technologies to provide guided tours, recommend books and introduce local cuisine and cultural sites,” explained Fei Jun, professor with the School of Design, the Central Academy of Fine Arts, and creative director of the Metaverse Experience Hall. His team conducted in-depth research on Lu Xun’s life and works to create a realistic and multidimensional digital persona. In addition to the digital Lu Xun, Fei’s team created two other digital characters, “Tutu” and “2122”, each with distinct personalities: one childlike and the other futuristic. These avatars, driven by large language models, engage visitors in conversations about literature and everyday life. Since the library opened at the end of 2023, these AI characters have participated in more than 1.7 million voice interactions. Seven-year-old reader Wang Jiayi eagerly asked 2122 questions such as, “Why did dinosaurs go extinct?” and “Why do maple leaves turn red in autumn?” Her mother commented:

o Technology enhances immersive reading experience in Beijing

A visitor interacts with the digital Lu Xun at the Metaverse Experience Hall of the Beijing Library. – PIC FROM BEIJING YOUTH DAILY

The impressive-looking Beijing Library under the night sky. – PICS BY FAN JIASHAN

People visiting the Metaverse Experience Hall of the Beijing Library.

exploring venue information and upcoming events. Readers also interact with one another via their digital avatars, sharing reading lists, exchanging book reviews, and bridging online and offline reading experiences. Looking ahead, the library plans to introduce additional immersive features, including personalised virtual study rooms. “Our goal is to offer a multisensory experience – visual, auditory and even tactile – so users feel as if they’ve entered a

“The digital humans are engaging and informative. They genuinely spark children’s interest in learning.” Entering the library feels akin to stepping into a digital universe. Visitors can scan a QR code to verify their identity, customise their attire and quickly generate digital avatars within the Metaverse. These avatars can navigate virtual spaces such as the Children’s Library, Ancient Books Collection, Art Literature Library and Intangible Cultural Heritage Library,

enhanced environment that sparks curiosity and encourages readers to explore knowledge in innovative ways,” said Capital Library of China deputy director Li Nianzu. This article is contributed by Shi Fang, People’s Daily.

parallel world for immersive reading,” Fei said. His team is also developing an online version of the metaverse library, enabling remote access to its digital environment and vast knowledge collections. “Beyond traditional print books, we want to create a technology

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