The future of AI in government depends on more than just advanced technology: it requires human-centered design, inclusion, and accessibility at every stage. Few leaders embody this holistic approach more than Natalie Buda Smith, Director of Digital Strategy at the Library of Congress.
With more than 30 years of experience in IT and digital transformation, Smith has led teams at NavigationArts, IBM, and now one of the world’s most significant cultural institutions: the Library of Congress. Her leadership spans global contexts, with projects in the U.S., Europe, and India, giving her a uniquely international perspective on digital transformation in the public sector.
At the Library of Congress, she oversees digital strategy initiatives that integrate emerging technologies, data-driven solutions, and human-centered design practices. Her focus on inclusion, diversity, and accessibility ensures that digital products and services not only deliver innovation but also reflect the needs of the diverse communities government serves.
Smith’s approach illustrates how artificial intelligence for the public sector can be both powerful and responsible. By prioritizing ethical design, she demonstrates that government innovation must always balance efficiency with equity. Her leadership is a model for how agencies can modernize while strengthening public trust.
Natalie Buda Smith will share her perspective at GovAI Summit, where leaders across government will explore how to make digital transformation practical, responsible, and impactful. Her insights come at a time when agencies are seeking ways to connect AI policy with on-the-ground service delivery.
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Smith’s career reflects a powerful truth: government technology must always start with people. By combining data, AI, and human-centered design, she is helping the Library of Congress and the broader public sector create digital services that are inclusive, ethical, and built for lasting impact.
See the GovAI Summit agenda here to learn more about Natalie Buda Smith’s session and join the conversation on the future of public sector AI and government digital transformation.