Session 72: AI and "The Future of Human Agency"
Channel: Libraries In Response
Date: 30/03/2023

Come hear how "experts are split on how much control people will retain over essential decision-making as digital systems and AI spread. They agree that powerful corporate and government authorities will expand the role of AI in people’s daily lives in useful ways. But many worry these systems will diminish individuals’ ability to control their choices." -PEW
 
"AI is a huge harbinger of social change and libraries must be part of it.” -David Leonard, BPL
 
Speakers:
Lee Rainie, Director, Internet and Technology research at Pew Research Center
Fiona O’Connor, Senior Services Specialist in Digital Literacy Initiatives, Toronto Public Library
Respondent:
David Leonard, President, Boston Public Library
 
Join in as Lee anchors a discussion on this important canvassing of AI authorities of a fascinating and possibly world changing topic. How can libraries anticipate the changes ahead? Will they be small or large changes? Maybe very very large! How to prepare? What opportuniies have or might arise?
Finona will recap the extensive AI progamming agenda she's leading for TPL.
David will act as respondent to lead discussion.
 
Tune in for what promises to be an insightful and timely session!
"Advances in the internet, artificial intelligence (AI) and online applications have allowed humans to vastly expand their capabilities and increase their capacity to tackle complex problems. These advances have given people the ability to instantly access and share knowledge and amplified their personal and collective power to understand and shape their surroundings. Today there is general agreement that smart machines, bots and systems powered mostly by machine learning and artificial intelligence will quickly increase in speed and sophistication between now and 2035." - The Future of Human Agency by Lee Rainie and Janna Andersen
 
Special Thanks to:
Session Sponsor: Urban Libraries Council

AI and Digital Citizenship: "The transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expanding rapidly with significant implications in nearly all areas of 21st century life including education, employment and civic engagement. ULC is working to empower libraries to become respected thought leaders and essential community resources in the AI revolution, ensuring everyone has the tools to become responsible, successful and safe digital citizens as technology continues to rapidly evolve."