A practical, plain-English introduction to what AI is (and isn't), tailored for front-line library conversations.
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Recommended Structure:

Format: Live online (Zoom or equivalent)
Length: One week (three touchpoints)
Capacity: Up to 25 attendees
Online Tools Provided: OpenNotebook, OpenWebUI

Session 1 — Intro + Q&A (≈60 min)
Establish shared vocabulary and core concepts

Session 2 — Office Hour / Open Lab (≈60 min)
Bring real patron questions, scenarios, and edge cases

Session 3 — Follow-up Discussion + Reflections (≈60 min)
Reinforce key points and translate learning into day-to-day practice

This offering builds a shared baseline of AI literacy across staff roles. Participants learn how modern AI systems generate outputs, what they can and cannot do, and how to communicate non-sentience and limitations without jargon. The focus is practical, service-oriented safety: protecting patron privacy, validating information, and setting appropriate expectations.

Who it's for

  • Front-line staff who field patron questions about AI
  • Supervisors and trainers who want consistent, plain-language talking points
  • Anyone who wants a clear "catch-up" on modern AI basics without hype

What you'll learn

  • What modern AI is (and isn't), in plain language
  • How AI generates outputs and why it can sound confident when it's wrong
  • How to explain limitations and non-sentience respectfully and clearly
  • Privacy-forward habits for public service settings
  • How to set expectations and guide patrons toward responsible use

Leave with

  • Ready-to-use talking points for common patron questions
  • A shared baseline vocabulary your whole team can use
  • Practical safety practices for privacy and verification in daily service