By signing a Memorandum of Understanding, the National and University Library in Slovenia (NUK) has become one of the founding members of the formally established organisation AI4LAM (Artificial Intelligence for Libraries, Archives and Museums). Although the AI4LAM network has been active since 2018, this year’s memorandum officially established it as a legal entity. The signing took place in the framework of the Fantastic Futures 2025 conference in London, held from 3 to 5 December, where NUK Director Dr. Jana Kolar and Ajda Zavrtanik Drglin (NUK staff member) actively participated in workshops, meetings, and the professional programme.

Prior to the start of the conference, a formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding took place, officially establishing the AI4LAM organisation. AI4LAM is an international community of libraries, archives, museums, and other research institutions committed to the responsible, transparent, and user-centred development and implementation of artificial intelligence solutions in the cultural heritage sector. During the establishment process, an important role was also played by former NUK staff member Dr. Ines Vodopivec, now Secretary General of AI4LAM.

The memorandum was also signed by NUK Director Dr. Jana Kolar, thereby making the library a founding member of this umbrella organisation. More than 40 heritage and research institutions from around the world have joined the initiative, united by a shared commitment to the safe, transparent, and user-friendly development of AI solutions for libraries, archives, and museums. The memorandum defines principles of cooperation, knowledge, data and tool sharing, as well as a shared vision for the development of artificial intelligence technologies.

Through AI4LAM, a framework is being established that will enable NUK to take on a more active role internationally and to connect Slovenian initiatives with global trends in artificial intelligence within the heritage sector.