Rubo is an AI-powered library and campus assistant. It can help greet visitors and answer questions while also experimenting behind the scenes with its ability to perform physical tasks.
Name origin: The name “Rubo” has roots in Latin for “reddish,” reflecting Stony Brook University’s signature red. Rubo is also envisioned as a sibling to Ruby, the mascot of the CAT Lab makerspace.
Pronouns: it/its
Birthplace: Stony Brook University Libraries
Birthdate: June 2026
Family: Rubo was brought to life through a collaboration among Stony Brook University Libraries and the departments of Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Technology, AI and Society, with support from the President’s Fast Impact Fund initiative and the Provost’s Office.
Rubo’s mission is to explore how an AI-powered humanoid robot can support library and campus communities by piloting different possibilities, including:
- Welcoming and interacting with visitors.
- Helping people navigate the library and find information.
- Supporting quick understanding of commonly used library services.
- Making services more inclusive and accessible.
- Exploring how physical capabilities can support practical and needed library tasks.
