INVITED ARTICLE
Cao Gaohui, Dong Huanqing
[Purpose/Significance] This study explores the pathways, challenges, and development strategies of AI digital humans empowering library service innovation, aiming to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the intelligent upgrading and smart service system construction of libraries, and to promote the innovative development of smart libraries. [Method/Process] Based on a comprehensive literature review, this study first reviewed the definition, characteristics, and technical architecture of AI digital humans, clarifying their multidimensional value in library services. Second, from the perspectives of library service categories and diverse user needs, it identified the logical path through which AI digital humans are embedded in library services. Finally, by analyzing the challenges libraries faced during the pre-introduction and post-introduction of AI digital humans, the study proposed corresponding development strategies for AI-driven library service innovation. [Result/Conclusion] The findings reveal that the logical path of AI digital human integration into library services comprises four progressive stages: classification of AI-enabled library service categories, configuration of intelligent cores, construction of role types, and adaptation and evolution of service scenarios and capabilities, demonstrating a transition from functional integration to contextual fusion. In terms of service scenarios, AI digital human applications can be categorized into six typical contexts: user consultation and reception, navigation and spatial guidance, academic research and knowledge discovery, teaching and tutoring, companionship and psychological interaction, and brand communication and cultural engagement, each with distinctive service emphases. In terms of development strategies, the study proposes three key approaches, promoting modular development, consolidating data foundations, and advancing pilot implementation, to facilitate the deep integration of AI digital humans into library services.