This guide describes some of these challenges and promotes ways to effectively incorporate generative AI as part of a well-rounded research plan. Generative AI adds new options to pair with existing Library research databases and services but comes with ethical concerns, legal issues, and technological challenges which can introduce errors into the research process and potentially run afoul of class, campus, and other policies. AI technology and guidelines are constantly evolving, so please consult the guidelines provided by your supervisor, instructor, and publishing journals.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has one of the largest university libraries in the United States, meaning that you have access to millions of trusted primary and secondary source materials. Our subject specialists can assist with your own research, as well as designing research assignments for classes which reflect our growing understanding of best-use practices for generative AI. 

Campus Note: The Illinois Technology Services department provides a list of approved resources on their Generative AI Resources page. Any application not on their list is not approved and should not be used with University solutions or devices. 

Curious to learn more about AI? 

• Savvy Researcher workshops on AI
• CITL’s page on Generative AI Implications for Teaching and Learning 
• Generative AI Solutions Hub resource page
• Generative AI Guidance for Instructors 

Last Updated: November 2024

This page was developed by Celenia Graves, Experimental Learning & Engagement Librarian with support from the following contributors:

• Mary Ton, Digital Humanities, Scholarly Communications & Publishing
• Evie Cordell, eLearning Librarian, Teaching, Learning, & Academic Support
• Sara Benson, Copyright Librarian, Scholarly Communications & Publishing
• Stu Turner, IDEA Lab Coordinator
• David Ward, Reference Librarian & Undergraduate Services Coordinator, Teaching, Learning, & Academic Support
• Anna Liss Jacobsen, Bioengineering and Engineering Medical Innovation Librarian

This LibGuide was reviewed by the CAPT Library Emerging and Integrated Technologies Coordination (LEITC) and the Generative AI Solutions Hub, formerly the Center of Expertise on Generative AI (GenAI CoE). The Library Artificial Intelligence Strategy and Services Task Force is currently (Fall 2024) reviewing this guide.