AI 101 for Library Staff

AI 101 for Library Staff A friendly, text-based introduction to Artificial Intelligence — designed specifically for the library world.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even a bit unsettling. But it doesn’t have to be.

This short, accessible course is designed to help library staff build confidence with AI — using plain English, real-world examples, and practical tips that make sense in your day-to-day work. You don’t need to be techy or keep up with every trend. You just need curiosity and a bit of time to explore safely.

In this course, you’ll learn:

• What AI actually is — explained clearly and simply

• What AI can do well (and where it falls short)

• Key terms like “Large Language Model” made easy

• How AI already shows up in tools you use every day

• A simple starter toolkit (no overwhelm, no hype)

• Why it’s perfectly OK to be sceptical — and why that matters

• Three low-risk ways to try AI out in your library work

• Best practices for using AI ethically, safely, and confidently

Why it’s different:

• Written for library staff, by people who get the library world

• Reassuring, plain language with no pressure to “keep up”

• Encourages thoughtful, values-led use of AI

• Focused on practical relevance, not technical depth

Free for Empower members

This course is included in the Empower Learning Zone at no extra cost for all members. Simply log in to your dashboard to get started.

Not a member? You can sign up here or purchase this course individually.