Hamilton Libraries Draw the Line at AI-Generated Books to Support Human Authors

No Bots on the Bookshelves: Hamilton Says No to AI Authors

The Hamilton City Libraries have taken a clear stance against AI-generated books. Paula Murdoch, director of Te Ohomauri o Kirikiriroa Hamilton City Libraries, confirmed there is no evidence that AI-written works have made it onto library shelves. This is in line with their new policy explicitly banning the acquisition of books substantially created by artificial intelligence.

While many authors pour their blood, sweat, and tears into their writing, Hamilton’s libraries prioritize supporting genuine human creativity. Unlike other public libraries across New Zealand, which generally avoid AI-written content, Hamilton is the first to formalize this restriction through a specific policy.

Quality Over Quantity

Murdoch emphasized that the decision is grounded in quality considerations: “At this stage, it's all about whether the content is authoritative and reputable.” She noted that most AI-generated material is self-published, often driven by revenue rather than literary merit, and falls short of the standards Hamilton seeks for its collections.

Suppliers have been informed about the no-AI directive, and any AI-generated books identified after acquisition will be returned for a refund. However, Murdoch hinted that this position might evolve as AI technology improves and produces higher-quality work.

Writers Voice Their Concerns

Local authors strongly support Hamilton’s position. Catherine Chidgey, a Cambridge-based novelist praised for her latest work, The Book Of Guilt, shared her unease about unknowingly reading AI-written books. She recalled an event where an AI attempt to mimic her style produced “utter garbage,” but she acknowledged the technology’s rapid progress could soon blur those lines.

Crime novelist Nikki Crutchley expressed a firm rejection of AI-authored books. “Reading is about human connection and lived experience,” she said. “AI can mimic creativity but cannot replicate genuine feeling.” Crutchley also revealed that her works had been used without consent to train AI writing programs, a troubling development for many authors.

Children’s author Yvonne Milroy, known for her book Jimothy, echoed these concerns but took a pragmatic view. While she supports the library’s stance, she acknowledges AI’s utility in tasks like idea generation, rewording, and research efficiency. Still, she stressed the importance of investing in human creativity over AI-generated content.

Balancing Tradition and Technology

Richard Swainson, who runs the region’s only DVD rental store and writes obituaries and columns, is cautiously supportive of the ban but curious about future implications. He raised the question: if an AI-written book became a bestseller, would libraries be obliged to carry it to meet public demand?

Hamilton’s policy also reflects the city’s rich literary heritage, home to noted writers like Frank Sargeson and a vibrant community of contemporary authors. The commitment to real writers ensures that libraries remain a haven for authentic stories born from human experience.

What This Means for Writers

• Libraries like Hamilton’s are setting precedents that protect human authorship and creativity.
• Writers should be aware of how AI is impacting publishing and the ethical concerns around AI training on existing works.
• While AI tools may assist in research or brainstorming, human storytelling remains irreplaceable.
• Policies banning AI-written books might influence which works get library support and public recognition.

For writers interested in understanding AI’s role in creative fields, exploring courses on AI and its applications can be valuable. Resources such as AI books training and prompt engineering courses provide insights into the technology shaping the industry.

As AI continues to evolve, the conversation around authenticity and quality in writing will grow. For now, Hamilton City Libraries stand firm in supporting human authorship, ensuring readers connect with stories that carry the true pulse of human experience.