ArLA 2026 Annual Conference

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11:00am CDT

AI and Society: Blazing New Trails in Digital Literacy

Sunday October 18, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Come learn the basics of how artificial intelligence works and sort out what's good, what's bad, and what's just hype. In this interactive presentation from a public library perspective, we'll cover key terms in the AI conversation, get a little nerdy about its mechanics, and discuss the issues on everyone's minds, like environmental concerns, misleading content, and...why some are saying AI could wipe out humanity?!

Participants will leave ready to start balanced conversations about AI at their own libraries. They will also leave equipped to help colleagues and patrons navigate the changing Internet while maintaining privacy and safety. The ultimate goal is for participants to leave feeling empowered to claim their agency in this new digital world.

This session is perfect for folks who are brand new to learning about AI, as well as anyone looking for a critical, yet open-minded approach to this often-polarizing topic. We're charting new terrain in technology, so let's guide our course with facts and values, not fear and hype.

Speakers

Susannah Stubbs

Lead Adult Community Educator, North Little Rock Public Library

Susannah Stubbs is lead adult community educator at Laman Library in North Little Rock, where she hosts programs ranging from digital literacy classes and personal style workshops to silent discos.

Sunday October 18, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
TBA

Break Out Session