Online is all we need?! (Today and tomorrow of the library as a cyberphysical system). Part 1. Terminology and conceptualization

The problem-setting dilogy comprises the analysis of the library as a cyberphysical system. The purpose is to analyze the library objects and functions as related to evolving generative artificial intelligence (AI). Based on the terminological analysis of the terms “cyberphysical system” (CPS), “virtual librarian”, and “digital twin librarian (DTL)”, the conceptual model of the library as the CPS is introduced. Based on the analysis of AI systems and AI agents implementation experience, the author defines the DTL priority functions and offers its conceptual model. Opposed to the universal model, the multiagent trajectory is proposed. The following theoretical methods were applied: а) concept terminological analysis; b) document analysis used to characterize the level of prior studies and specific character of cyberphysical modelling in library information services; and c) AI systems and AI agents typological analysis to reveal the prospects for their utilization as digital twins in the library practice. The author highlights the contradiction between absent unified approach toward DTL concept and the demand for this term unambiguous interpretation shared by the professional library community as a whole. The author formulates the problem of the differences in existing interpretations of the outcome of library and information activity virtualization and offers his own interpretation of the library as a cyberphysical system.