A Library 2.0 "AI Webinar" with Reed Hepler

OVERVIEW: 

In a time when powerful AI tools are rapidly reshaping how we interact with information, it is more important than ever to take a proactive approach to personal and institutional privacy. This session focuses on the realities and risks of data sharing with generative AI tools, whether intentional or inadvertent. We will explore how sensitive information can be exposed, extrapolated, and potentially misused, even when users believe their data is protected.

Through real-world cautionary tales and critical examination of privacy laws and ethical pitfalls, participants will learn about:

• The ways AI can infer and extrapolate sensitive information from user interactions—sometimes beyond what is directly provided.
• The legal and ethical hurdles surrounding privacy protections, including challenges in recognizing and proving privacy harms.
• Best practices for anonymizing or minimizing data shared with AI, applying the principles of data minimization, least privilege, and informed consent.
• Strategies for both organizations and individuals to safeguard private and sensitive information, such as implementing rigorous access controls, relying on synthetic data, and maintaining vigilant data governance practices.

This interactive session is designed to challenge assumptions, highlight practical steps, and empower you to take deliberate control over privacy in your engagement with generative AI. By the end, you will be equipped to adopt a more privacy-conscious approach—balancing the benefits of AI with an unwavering commitment to ethical data stewardship.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Examine the various harms that privacy violations can cause when interacting with technology.
• Describe specific strategies for protecting confidentiality.
• Describe how to help library workers, patrons, and students protect their privacy when interacting with genAI tools.
• Cite specific examples of AI tools’ fallibility.
• Develop an explanation for patrons at the various hazards AI users face related to privacy and confidentiality violations.

This 60-minute online webinar is part of our Library 2.0 AI Series. The recording and presentation slides will be available to all who register.

DATE: Tuesday, October 7th, 2025, 2:00 - 3:00 pm US - Eastern Time

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.