Discover the Transformative Power of Libraries
Explore how libraries can transcend their traditional roles to become beacons of hope and change in our communities.
Unveiling 'Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship'
In ‘Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship,’ R. David Lankes, alongside Jain Orr and Qianzi Cao, presents a groundbreaking narrative that challenges librarians to redefine their roles in the face of modern societal issues. This book delves into the critical intersections of technology, community, and justice, urging libraries to be proactive agents of change and resilience in an increasingly divided world.
Key Themes of 'Triptych'
Deaths of Despair
Explore the profound impact of “Deaths of Despair” in our society, where economic stress, social disenfranchisement, and a lack of purpose lead to tragic outcomes. This theme delves into the role of libraries as beacons of hope, combating social isolation and fostering community well-being.
Artificial Intelligence
Dive into the world of AI and its transformative effects on society, libraries, and the workforce. This theme examines the ethical implications, challenges, and opportunities presented by AI, and underscores the importance of librarians understanding and leveraging this powerful technology.
Feral Librarians
Consider the transformative power of “feral librarians,” professionals who enter the field through unconventional paths, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. challenge traditional norms and drive the evolution of modern librarianship.
Read Excerpts in Library Journal
An Introduction to Triptych
R. David Lankes, the Virginia and Charles Bowden Professor of Librarianship at the University of Texas at Austin and co-host of the Libraries Lead podcast, recently published his latest book, Triptych: Death, AI, and Librarianship, in association with Library Journal. The following is the first in a series of excerpts from Triptych, which is a compilation of three lectures. https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/triptych-tl-dr
Triptych: Libraries and Loneliness
The following excerpt by Jain Orr, PhD Student at the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Information, examines the relationship between loneliness and libraries, questioning the extent to which libraries can function as social infrastructure to address feelings of isolation. https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/triptych-loneliness
Download Lecture Slides
The images in each lecture are slides from that lecture. Here you can download PowerPoint files with those slides to use in professional development or your own presentations.
AI Free Edition Available
If you would rather read my latest book, Triptych, without the distraction of AI, then I have put out a new AI Free version. You can buy the new edition on Amazon. The content is the same, save for illustrations and AI generated discussion questions. New cover is from licensed stock art. The content is virtually identical in other ways (with a few edits made).
Key Quotes
“We need to shift the narrative of serving communities to one of saving them.“
“That is AI, no matter how good or bad, is redefining trust”
“Librarians facilitate participation “
“It is in fact an understanding that a continuously knowledgeable citizenry is essential to correct disinformation and maintain a fair and equitable democratic conversation.”
“the costs are increasingly disaffected communities that see only more barriers and less agency”
“The potential of librarianship to improve society is too important to gatekeep, exclude, or relegate to second tier status those who advance the field without formal university degrees.”