ANTswers is a custom AI chatbot which can answer simple questions about library resources and services.
Get started by copying an example prompt below or start typing your question in the prompt area directly.
How do I borrow a book from the library?
What are the library hours?
Can I reserve a study room?
Need More Help?
ANTswers is intended to help library patrons with questions about library resources and services. Should you need assistance with more complicated reference questions, please use Ask a Librarian.
About ANTswers
Originally launched in 2014, ANTswers began as an experimental chatbot designed to answer simple, short questions using AIML (Artificial Intelligence Markup Language). As of 2025, ANTswers has been upgraded to use ZotGPT technology, transforming it into a full-featured AI assistant.
The new ANTswers can now handle more complex and in-depth questions. While you may notice a slight delay as responses are generated, the system is designed to provide more thoughtful answers and support iterative, conversational interactions.
Library staff regularly review ANTswers chat logs to improve and refine the service. No personally identifiable information is stored unless you voluntarily provide it during your conversation. For more details, please refer to the UC Irvine Libraries Privacy Statement.