A Library 2.0 "AI Deep Dive" Workshop with Reed Hepler

*Please note that session link emails will be sent directly through Library2.0, not from LibCal.

OVERVIEW: 

This 90-minute workshop builds on the evolving landscape of AI customization, exploring how professionals can maximize AI tools for enhanced productivity in academic, library, and professional settings. In today's fast-paced, data-driven environment, the demand for efficiency and innovation has never been higher. Professionals face a flood of AI tools and lists of prompts promising productivity boosts, but the key challenge is implementing solutions that truly improve workflows with a human-centered focus.

In October 2024, we presented a session on custom AI models, such as Custom GPTs. Over the past year, these have been complemented by more advanced "AI Agents," which can execute multi-step tasks across multiple programs for complex workflows. Additionally, using generalized AI tools with tailored, specific prompts offers greater capabilities than generic interactions. Together, custom models, AI agents, and precision prompting represent the three primary methods for optimizing AI in professional contexts.

This hands-on, in-depth workshop, designed for librarians, educators, and other professionals, will guide participants through customizing AI to streamline work processes, enhance data analysis, improve communication, and manage projects more effectively. Attendees will learn the foundational principles of AI tool creation and leave with a custom model or use case that boosts productivity while emphasizing transparency and ethical responsibility. 

The workshop covers key topics, including how AI tools work, custom AI in context, and the three custom solutions and when to use each. Participants will gain practical strategies for integrating customized AI responsibly, ensuring outputs are accurate, unbiased, and ethically sound.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Understand the functions and evolution of AI customization methods for professional productivity, including custom models, AI agents, and precision prompting.
• Develop skills for assessing and implementing AI solutions that go beyond basic prompting to achieve targeted outcomes.
• Gain insights into ethical and transparent use of customized AI tools in workflows.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Upon completing this webinar, attendees will be able to:

• Build and fine-tune custom AI models, such as Custom GPTs, to address specific professional needs like data analysis or project management.
• Utilize AI agents for multi-step, complex tasks across programs, while identifying when to apply each customization method.
• Create and apply specific prompts in general AI tools for enhanced results, fostering responsible, productive, and ethical AI integration in daily work.

This 90-minute online webinar is part of our Library 2.0 AI Series. The recording and presentation slides will be available to all who register.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Maryland State Library Agency.