Prompt Engineering for Academic Research and Literacy (PEARL): Guidelines for Prompt Engineering in Library Consultation Work

The integration of Generative AI (GenAI) into academic and professional contexts has introduced new challenges and opportunities for libraries and librarians. As students and researchers navigate when and how to use GenAI tools, librarians are uniquely positioned to guide ethical and effective engagement. Prompt engineering, the practice of crafting precise prompts to optimize GenAI outputs, closely aligns with traditional information literacy skills, such as developing search strategies and evaluating sources. Historically, librarians have adapted to technological shifts, from card catalogs to online databases, honing advanced search techniques to manage complex information landscapes. GenAI represents the next evolution, requiring librarians to help users ask the right questions and critically assess AI-generated content. While opinions on GenAI in higher education remain mixed, emerging frameworks like CLEAR and AID demonstrate potential for enhancing research and citation practices. The Prompt Engineering for Advanced Research in Libraries (PEARL) guidelines build on this foundation, offering practical strategies for incorporating GenAI into reference interviews. By leveraging their expertise in information retrieval, librarians can empower users to navigate GenAI responsibly, ensuring accuracy, credibility, and ethical use in research consultations.