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The Skeptical Guide to AI: Exploring the Big Questions Online
* Please note the session link will be sent separately from the LibCal registration confirmation. If you do not receive the session link the morning of the session, please contact admin@library20.com
A 2-hour In-depth Masterclass with Crystal Trice
OVERVIEW:
Are you wondering if you should be skeptical of all the AI hype? Do you find yourself questioning the promises of what AI can really do? Are you concerned that the excitement around AI might overshadow its limitations and risks? Do you want to ensure you understand AI's implications for both personal and professional decision-making?
This two-hour Masterclass invites library and education professionals to explore the most pressing ethical and philosophical questions about artificial intelligence, grounded in the critical thinking and thoughtful engagement that define our professions. For four weeks following the initial session, there will be weekly optional one-hour live conversation sessions for those who want to dive deeper or ask questions (recorded for independent listening).
TOPICS:
- Why are we scared of AI? Exploring fears about AI’s impact on society and our professions.
- How intelligent is it? Breaking down what AI can and cannot do.
- Why isn’t it factual? Examining the limitations of AI in truth-telling and reliability.
- Is it cheating? Grappling with the ethical use of AI in intellectual and creative work.
- Should I treat AI like a person? Discussing the risks and ethics of anthropomorphizing AI.
- Will it take over the world? Exploring concerns about control, power, and existential risks.
- Who owns AI creativity? Discussing questions of originality, authorship, and creative ownership in AI-generated work.
- Is AI worth the effort? Evaluating the return on investment for libraries using AI, balancing time, costs, and benefits.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
Those who are interested in exploring the ethical and philosophical dimensions of AI in their work. Participants will also gain discussion questions and insights that they can take back to their organization, sparking inspiration for sharing knowledge and fostering broader conversations within their teams. The series provides a space to reflect, question, and engage deeply with AI’s implications for the profession. By the end of the series, participants will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of AI while staying true to organizational values.
The masterclass is a live, online 2-hour live event. However, attendance is not required. The recording, with the slide deck and chat log, will be released immediately to registrants for unlimited post-event viewing,
DATE: Friday, February 6th, 2026, from 12:00 - 2:00 PM US - Eastern Time
- Date:
- Friday, February 6, 2026
- Time:
- 12:00pm - 2:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Sponsor:
- Southern Maryland Regional Library Association (SMRLA)
- Online:
- This is an online event. Event URL will be sent via registration email.
- Audience:
- Library Staff Library Staff - Public Libraries
- Categories:
- Technology
Please register no later than Feb 2, 2026. Library staff from Maryland public libraries only. This session will be recorded and posted to the Maryland Libraries Training Niche Academy. Please register using your Maryland library staff email showing your library system's authenticated domain name. Generic Gmail addresses will not have access to the archives. Check your spam folder if you don't receive your confirmation email by the morning of the session. Emails come from library20email@gmail.com or admin@library20.com . For any registration difficulties or questions, email admin@library20.com.
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