Agent-based approach to intelligent search in library systems

The article explores the application of an agent-based Retrieval-Augmented Generation (Agentic RAG) approach to intelligent search tasks in library collections. The object of the study is the Agentic RAG architecture, which integrates information retrieval mechanisms with agent-based planning and self-evaluation of intermediate results. The addressed problem concerns the limitations of classical Retrieval-Augmented Generation in handling complex thematic and contextual queries within semantically rich library data environments. Unlike traditional RAG pipelines, the agent-based architecture enables iterative refinement of search strategies, adaptive decision-making, and reassessment of intermediate outcomes. The research methodology is based on the development of a software prototype implementing Agentic RAG and its experimental comparison with a classical RAG baseline using a real university library corpus comprising bibliographic metadata, annotations, and full-text fragments. The evaluation framework includes standard information retrieval metrics (Precision@k, Recall@k, MRR, nDCG) as well as expert-based assessment of answer relevance. The results demonstrate a consistent superiority of Agentic RAG in terms of retrieval accuracy, recall, and ranking quality, particularly for complex queries. However, the interpretation of findings is constrained by the selected evaluation metrics and the characteristics of the experimental corpus. The practical significance lies in the potential integration of agent-based architectures into library information systems without requiring substantial infrastructural changes.

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