About the Author
I'm Aaron Tay, Head of Data Services at SMU Libraries (Singapore) and before that was E-services Facilitator, Senior Librarian at the National University of Singapore Libraries. I am also known as the author of Musings about Librarianship — a blog I've run since 2009 exploring library technology, discovery systems, and increasingly, AI-powered academic search tools.
My work currently focuses on critically evaluating how AI is reshaping research discovery. I test tools like Consensus, Elicit, Undermind, Primo Research Assistant and Google’s offerings so you don’t have to wade through the hype. I’m particularly interested in reproducibility, transparency, and what these tools actually mean for rigorous evidence synthesis.
I have been quoted in publications like Nature and Science (news) and I serve on advisory boards including Clarivate’s Academia AI governance board, the CORE Advisory Board and Katina Librarianship Elevated (see my LinkedIn for details.)
This newsletter is 100% sponsor-free and always will be. If you’d like to support independent analysis of AI search tools, buy me a coffee.
Why subscribe?
Subscribe to get full access to the newsletter and website. Never miss an update.
Stay up-to-date
You won’t have to worry about missing anything. Every new edition of the newsletter goes directly to your inbox
Disclosure & Independence Policy
I don’t accept any form of financial compensation, sponsorship, or incentives for mentions of products, tools, or services featured on this Substack. If I discuss or highlight a product, it’s solely because I personally find it interesting, relevant, or potentially valuable to researchers and librarians.
At times, I may accept temporary or trial access to tools for the purpose of evaluation or review. However, every word of my commentary and analysis is entirely my own. and will not be edited or influenced by the product team.
My goal is to maintain independence and credibility in all posts. Any interviews, reviews, or tool highlights are conducted out of genuine interest—not commercial arrangement.
Transparency and independence matter to me. Readers can trust that anything discussed here is based on my honest perspective and curiosity, not external influence.
Speaking Engagements & Collaborations
While I do not accept payment for product mentions, I am available for talks, workshops, and consultations related to research discovery, AI in libraries, bibliometrics, and related topics.
If you’d like to invite me to speak at a conference, professional event, or institutional workshop, please reach out through my Substack contact form or via LinkedIn for details on availability, scope, and honorarium arrangements.
I do not usually participate in online talks which are shorter than 30 minutes, as I prefer sessions that allow for deeper exploration and meaningful discussion.
These engagements are entirely separate from my writing here and follow the same principles of transparency, integrity, and independence.
