Primo AI is an extension of Primo that enables generative artificial intelligence (AI) supported searches. Only electronic resources are evaluated.

When using Primo AI please take into account the FU's Statute for Safeguarding Good Research Practice and the Guidelines for the Use of AI-Based Systems and Tools in Teaching and Learning. In the context of examinations or graded work, its use may be prohibited or subject to documentation. Use is at your own responsibility.

Primo AI can be used to:

• Start a subject search.
• Get a first impression of electronic publications on a topic.
• Identify possible search terms.
• Gain initial orientation in the writing process or in finding a topic.

Primo AI complements the classic Primo search without replacing it. A critical and informed evaluation of the results is required. For a complete picture of the literature on a topic, a search in specialised databases remains indispensable.

Important information about using Primo AI

• Primo AI provides automatically generated answers – you need to check them critically.
• Only the titles and abstracts of electronic publications will be evaluated.
• Primo AI does not replace a systematic search in Primo or specialised databases.
• To access licensed content, you must be logged in through VPN or eduroam within the FU zone.

How to start with Primo AI

• Log in with your library ID or your FU account in the library portal Primo.
• Switch to the "Primo AI" tab.
• Enter your question in natural language (whole sentences).
• Primo AI analyses matches from the Central Discovery Index (CDI) and creates a short text response with a maximum of five references.
• In addition, Primo AI suggests related queries

What Primo AI can't do

• Provide references to relevant print holdings at University Library locations
• Create complete systematic literature reviews
• Ensure reliable relevance of the proposed results
• Perform search in full texts
• Answer highly specialized technical questions or specific everyday factual queries (web search)
• Answer questions about library information and services

 Primo remains your central point for

• Searching for the on-site and electronically available media of the University Library
• Searching for licensed and freely accessible electronic resources
• Storing, exporting and editing search results

Trainings and consultation hours

Here you can register for a 45-minute training (in German).

Via this Webex link you can participate in the Primo AI consultation without registration (in English or German). This takes place at the following times:

• Donnerstag, 30. April 2026 11:15 (s.t.) - 12:00 Uhr (online)
• Dienstag, 30. Juni 2026 14:15 (s.t.) - 15:00 Uhr (online)