This report expertly frames machine learning and both its possibilities and its challenges. After defining machine learning and distinguishing it from the broader category of artificial intelligence (AI), the author describes the history of the use of these technologies in libraries and explores various approaches.

The Library of Congress, like many cultural heritage organizations, faces a number of challenges as it seeks to increase discovery and use of its collections. A major concern is making historical and special format materials easier to find in order to be useful for educational and other pursuits. At the same time, resources are limited...