Integrating AI in Libraries: A Guide for Librarians and Educators

Summary: Integrating AI in Library Practices and Education

This session, led by Julie Erikson, a professional learning specialist and librarian, explores how school librarians can integrate AI tools effectively into their educational practices while addressing concerns about ethics, information literacy, and evolving search methods. Julie emphasizes collaboration with educators, AI literacy, and practical resources for navigating this rapidly changing landscape.

Key Themes

1. Librarians as AI Leaders:
   • Librarians play a critical role in teaching AI literacy, promoting ethical use, and supporting digital citizenship.
   • Building connections between curriculum and library resources enhances relevance and engagement.
2. Bridging Gaps in AI Knowledge:
   • Many educators and librarians are still unfamiliar with AI or lack professional development opportunities.
   • Developing a comfort level with AI requires hands-on practice, experimentation, and exploration of available tools.
3. Ethics and Privacy in AI Use:
   • Importance of understanding AI terms of use and data-sharing practices.
   • Avoiding the inclusion of personally identifiable information (PII) in queries.

Practical Applications and Resources

Teaching AI Literacy:

• Digital Citizenship and Media Literacy:
  • Helping students differentiate between information and disinformation.
  • Engaging in discussions about vetting sources and promoting critical thinking.
• AI in Everyday Life:
  • Highlighting how AI integrates into daily tools such as Google Translate, Gmail, and Amazon recommendations.

Exploring AI Tools:

• Prompts and Search Strategies:
  • Teaching iterative prompting for AI tools, similar to advanced search techniques.
  • Utilizing resources like Microsoft's colorful prompt guide to structure effective queries.
• AI-Driven Resource Guides:
  • Using AI tools to create timelines, resource guides, and starter projects for educators and students.

Collaboration with Educators:

• Classroom Integration:
  • Joining Google Classrooms to share resources and maintain alignment with curriculum.
  • Tracking teacher homework calendars to prepare relevant library materials proactively.

Ethical Considerations and Policy Development

1. Privacy and Data Security:
   • Discussing data-sharing policies of popular AI tools with students and teachers.
   • Advocating for transparency and ethical use of AI in schools.
2. School and State Policies:
   • Developing clear guidelines for AI use in schools.
   • Balancing accessibility with security, ensuring equity for students without home access to AI tools.
3. Citations and Academic Honesty:
   • Educating students on how to cite AI-generated content properly.
   • Encouraging lateral reading and source verification for AI-generated outputs.

Takeaways for Librarians

1. Lead by Example:
   • Use AI tools to demonstrate ethical, creative, and collaborative practices.
2. Stay Informed:
   • Follow blogs, podcasts, and AI thought leaders to remain updated on emerging tools and trends.
3. Support Equity:
   • Advocate for balanced AI access in schools to ensure all students benefit from the technology.