“Inspiring Joy in the Library Ecosystem” Keynote. District 3 Fall Meeting. Austin, Texas.
Abstract: How can we as librarians choose joy in times of trial, gain joy from our communities, and bring joy to those communities.
Book Bans to AI: Changing the Narrative in Libraries
“Book Bans to AI: Changing the Narrative in Libraries” Keynote. Library Journal 2023 Directors Summit. Houston, Texas.
Abstract: While librarians should never surrender the fight for intellectual freedom, there is utility in changing the narrative of the conversation. Rather than fighting a charged reactionary “battle” against censorship, we should use local narratives that emphasize the professionalism of librarians and the larger societal benefits of public libraries. AI and workforce development provides one such opportunity.
LibrarianAI: Facilitation at the core of librarians role in AI
“LibrarianAI: Facilitation at the core of librarians role in AI.” Panel presentation at XX International Conference on University Libraries. Mexico CIty, Mexico
Abstract: To talk about what competencies librarians need in a world of ubiquitous AI has to start with rethinking the role of a librarian to begin with. Librarians should not compete with AI to be the objective answer machine, but instead be active facilitators of knowledge and fight for their communities.
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“Clear, Consistent, Inclusive, and Transparent”
“Clear, Consistent, Inclusive, and Transparent” AISLE 2023 Annual Conference, Champaign, IL.
Abstract: The role of school librarians extends beyond simply helping students achieve success in their studies. School librarians prepare students for life-long inquiry based learning. We foster students passions beyond the curriculum and equip them to thrive in a world of information and misinformation. But how do we plan and build programs around the unique passions of individuals?? What does a makerspace of the mind look like and how do we draw lines, and put together budgets with such diversity? How can we constantly add new services, and tools when we barely can keep up with the current program? This talk will lay out some ideas on how as librarians we can do less, but do it better. It is about focusing the work of the librarian to unleash the potential of students.
To Improve is Not a Neutral Act
“To Improve is Not a Neutral Act” Biblioteche Innovazione Comunita, Bergamo, Italy
Abstract: Values are one of the defining characteristics of a librarian. Yet one value needs a thorough rethinking: neutrality. In this short video Lankes argues that one can’t be neutral, that intellectual honesty is a better concept (active versus passive), and that such a stand is even more important in a time of attacks on intellectual freedom and librarians.
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Radicals, Rebellion, and Saving Our Communities
“Radicals, Rebellion, and Saving Our Communities” Keynote for EAHIL Workshop 2023, Trondheim
Abstract: Libraries are under attack. This presentation talks about how book challenges and proposed legislation in Texas should serve as a cautionary tale for the world.
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The Real AI: Augmented Intelligence
“The Real AI: Augmented Intelligence.” Presentation to the Enssib event 1, 2, 3… IA ! Intelligence Artificielle, Métiers et Compétences. May 11, 2023
Abstract: What are the necessary competencies for librarians in the age of AI? A presentation to the Enssib session on AI librarian competencies. THe whole agenda and video of the sessions can be found here: https://www.enssib.fr/printemps-des-metiers-2023-intelligence-artificielle-metiers-competences
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Librarians as “Truth Guns”
Librarians as “Truth Guns.” A presentation to Kazakhstan librarians.
Abstract: A discussion on the importance of librarians to empower communities to have strong conversations on literacy and empowering democratic participation.
Video: Translation video available via Instagram. English video below.
Next Steps in School Libraries or From Holy Crap to Hold My Beer
“Next Steps in School Libraries or From Holy Crap to Hold My Beer.” Libraries.Today National Forum.
Abstract: School Librarians have faced major disruption before. PCs, the Internet, etc.. They have faced these changes through a cycle of reactions from fear, to categorization, to adopting, and finally adaptation. This presentation looks at this cycle and two big present day disruption: generative AI, and material challenges.
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Library as Movement
“Library as Movement” Iowa Libraries Online Conference 2023
Abstract: The library is a platform to help communities improve. This platform must be collaborative. A place where librarians work directly with community members, companies, institutions, and others. It is these collaborations that drive positive change. This idea transforms the library as a place with services, to a movement – a joint effort to constantly advocate for positive change. The role of the librarian is as facilitator weaving together increasingly divided populations. The result is a library that reflects the unique nature and aspirations of a people looking to make a better future.
In this talk I’ll examine this idea and illustrate the reality of the approach with examples from Denmark, South Korea, Texas, and South Carolina. I’ll talk about how the core skills of librarians can be extended and directed to the library as a locus of radical positive change.
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