SESSION DESCRIPTION for conference program (243 words)AI isn't the trail boss, you are. As artificial intelligence reshapes how patrons search, how students research, and how communities access information, library professionals across every setting are uniquely positioned to lead the way. This session introduces a “human in the loop” framework, grounded in the U.S. Department of Labor AI Literacy Framework and the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy in Higher Education, and explores how these two frameworks intersect to create a powerful, practical approach to AI literacy that works in academic, public, school, and special library environments.
Through interactive discussion, real library examples, and a small group adaptation activity, participants will leave able to:
- Explain why library professionals are natural leaders in AI literacy and why you're already doing this work
- Apply ready-to-use strategies to patron programming, staff development, classroom instruction, or reference services with no technical background required
- Evaluate AI-generated content using established information literacy criteria and model that critical process for patrons, students, or colleagues
- Design an AI literacy activity that positions people as active collaborators with AI, not passive consumers
- Identify campus, community, or organizational partners to build a broader culture of ethical, human-centered AI use
Whether you're a solo school librarian, a public library program coordinator, a special library professional, or an academic instruction librarian, you'll leave with practical tools and a free template packet you can implement next week.
Because the best trail guides don't just know the path. They teach others to read the map.
