The Library and Information Service is proud to introduce BuziBIB, your new virtual library assistant (chatbot), designed to answer some of your basic queries, anytime, anywhere. The name BuziBIB is a creative portmanteau combining the isiXhosa word for “ask” (Buza) and the Afrikaans word for “library” (biblioteek, often shortened to bib).
BuziBIB is an automated, rules-based chatbot available on the Library website. It went live at the beginning of July and can be accessed in the bottom right corner of the Library homepage, as well as floating in the top right corner of Library Search, our mobile-friendly search platform.
This service was developed to provide basic library support to the University community 24/7. As it becomes more widely used, we will continue refining and expanding BuziBIB’s prompts and responses. For queries beyond its scope, the chatbot will offer the option to submit a query through our in-house ticketing system or, where appropriate, provide contact details for further assistance.
Although BuziBIB is not yet AI-driven, we hope this new service will make the Library, our resources, and our expertise more accessible than ever. Your feedback is welcomed as we continue to improve BuziBIB!