When everyone has a smart phone with instant access to just about everything, what's the role of public libraries? How does the Age of AI change the offerings provided by these traditional repositories of printed books?
In answering these questions, Erik Rock, technology manager of the Loveland Public Library, suggested that “libraries have become a space for communities to ‘try on’ new technologies as they become familiar and adopted into routine lives, such as with VR and 3D printing in recent years, and even desktop computers and the internet in eras past.”
Continuing with this thought, Rock indicated that the library’s motivation to host technology lectures featuring AI and cybersecurity topics was grounded in its mission to fill a community need. “The Loveland Public Library is committed to being a dynamic institution that provides lifelong learning opportunities to our community.”
WebJunction, which calls itself “the learning place for libraries,” couldn’t agree more with that mission. As the group proclaims on its website:
The rapid developments of AI present the latest opportunity for public libraries to engage with and educate patrons on technology. This includes helping people to understand what AI is, when it can be useful, and what cautions to consider. Introducing and exploring AI is a chance for the library to champion digital and information literacy and demonstrate leadership.
In fact, it was in that spirit that the Loveland Public Library invited Andres Sepulveda Morales to lead presentations for the library’s “AI Isn’t Magic” series. As the founder of the Rocky Mountain AI Interest Group’s "Fort Collins AI for Everyone" subgroup, Sepulveda Morales has long had a strong interest in bringing more people into the AI fold. Similarly, a big part of RMAIIG's mission is to bring AI awareness and education to those who might not otherwise make it to tech-heavy, AI-focused programs.
When asked about his takeaways thus far from the “AI Isn’t Magic” series, Sepulveda Morales noted, “The absolute highlight of this series has been the audience. It is rare to walk into a technology workshop and find yourself surrounded not just by professionals, but by neighbors, coworkers, and a diverse cross-section of our Loveland community. The energy and genuine willingness to learn that these participants bring to the table is incredible, and they are the heart of why this series has been so successful.”
In a similar vein, Rock mentioned that for several attendees, the highlight of their evening was being able to connect with others also interested in the topic of AI. Many enjoyed experimenting with the AI tool and wanted additional information shared with them. Rock continued:
The library’s hope for the future is to continue hosting Tech Talks on emerging topics as a way to keep our community involved and informed with technology. The likelihood of continuing AI as a topic is high, not only because the topic is forever evolving and changing, but because community interest continues to escalate due to increased awareness and usage.
Rock mused that “as an exponentially transformative technology, AI is impacting – and will continue to impact – all areas of society. The library aims to bridge the gap between a changing information landscape and community awareness and adoption." Library surveys about what types of tech offerings residents would like to see helped solidify its move toward hosting subject matter experts to present on emerging technology topics.
Rachel Etherington, the library's assistant technology librarian, emphasized the importance of bringing tech presentations to libraries:
Libraries must maintain public visibility and demonstrate their ongoing value in order to thrive. With many people facing tight budgets, taxpayers need clear evidence that supporting the library directly benefits them and their community. It is essential to also attract younger audiences, who are currently underrepresented in our public libraries. Technology and specifically AI attract that younger audience.
Of his invitation to Crys Black to co-present “AI Isn’t Magic,” Sepulveda Morales said, "She was the first person I thought of to work with on this series. It’s rare to find a speaker who can make the connections as effectively as she does between technical complexity and a community mindset. I've gotten a lot of experience seeing Crys in action through RMAIIG, and I'm delighted to have her bringing such a relatable voice to the technology conversation and supporting the Loveland Public Library.”
The “AI Isn’t Magic” series continues with “The Essential AI Toolkit” at the Loveland Public Library on Thursday, April 9. This session is billed as providing a guide to navigating the major AI platforms safe for home and work: "Attendees will learn practical prompting techniques for drafting, summarizing, and brainstorming, with a strong emphasis on data privacy and responsible usage habits."
The event takes place from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Registration is free, but there is a limit on the number of attendees, and registering online will guarantee admission.
The writer serves on the executive board and the advisory board of the Rocky Mountain AI Interest Group (RMAIIG). Andres Sepulveda Morales is the treasurer of Rocky Mountain AI, a 501(c)(3) organization. Crys Black is an RMAIIG advisory board member and a contributor to Colorado AI News.
