The Practical Ethics of AI (2025):
Copyright, Citation, and Circumspection
A Library 2.0 "AI Deep Dive" Workshop with Reed Hepler

OVERVIEW: 

As AI tools become increasingly essential in libraries, from ChatGPT and other mainstream platforms to specialized library applications, understanding the ethical implications of their use is no longer optional.

The challenge: Without clear guidelines, librarians and patrons risk developing AI practices that undermine professional standards, violate copyright, or compromise work quality. Critical questions remain unanswered: How do we navigate copyright when using AI? When and how should AI assistance be acknowledged? How do we maintain the integrity and quality of our work?

The solution: This webinar provides a practical framework for navigating AI ethics through the "Three Cs":

• Copyright – Understanding intellectual property in the age of AI
• Citation – When and how to acknowledge AI-generated content
• Circumspection – Maintaining quality, accuracy, and professional judgment

Rather than starting from scratch, you'll discover how to apply time-tested library ethics and practices to these new tools. Leave with actionable guidelines you can implement immediately in your work and share with patrons.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe the different ways of talking about AI operations and how those impact copyright.
• Discuss important factors to keep in mind related to one's front-end use of AI.
• Create a plan to guard privacy and confidentiality.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Learn about fair use, copyright, and open access, and how they relate to AI.
• Learn how to adapt common citation patterns to AI tools.
• Learn how to engage in quality control when it comes to AI use, outputs, and products.

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

*Please note actual session link will be sent separately from your LibCal registration confirmation. 

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.