Building a domain-specific large language model for Chinese ancient books: a case study on epitaph modelling

Authors

  • Minjie Yu zhejiang university
  • Haoyue Jin
  • Shiliang Xue

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31361795

Keywords:

Generative Artificial Intelligence, Domain-Specific, Large Language Model, Ancient Books, Epitaph

Abstract

Introduction. With the rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence technology, large language models (LLMs) are expected to play an important role in improving access to and the use of library collections. This study constructs and develops a generative conversational large language model tailored specifically to epitaphs, overcoming traditional research paths and systems of digitisation.

Method. Based on the Chinese epitaph database built by the Zhejiang University Library and some commercial epitaph databases, an epitaph generative dialogue large language model was constructed using Doubao as the base model through pre-training, supervised fine-tuning, and other full process trainings.

Analysis. This study used human evaluation, in which experts, researchers, or general users assessed the quality of model-generated outputs. The evaluation included the epitaphs of Cui Yi, Liu Yi, and Lihua in the Tang dynasty.

Results. The model successfully performed intelligent interpretation of epitaphs, automatic information extraction, and other knowledge-based services, thereby providing new ideas for constructing an ancient literature corpus from excavated materials represented by epitaphs.

Conclusion. A large-scale domain-specific foundational model tailored for library applications was successfully developed. The study offers innovative approaches for processing historical texts and suggests new directions for AI integration in library knowledge systems.

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Published

2026-10-15

How to Cite

Yu, M., Jin, H., & Xue, S. (2026). Building a domain-specific large language model for Chinese ancient books: a case study on epitaph modelling. Information Research an International Electronic Journal, 31(3), 511–532. https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31361795

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Section

Peer-reviewed papers