Course Description
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how organizations provide services, connect users with information, and support community needs. One of the newest developments in this space is the rise of AI agents—AI-powered tools capable of interacting with information, completing tasks, guiding users through complex processes, and supporting decision-making.
As AI technologies become increasingly common, library workers are being asked to evaluate new tools, advise stakeholders, and consider how these technologies might support library services and operations. Yet many questions remain: What exactly is an AI agent? How is it different from other AI tools? What can it realistically do? And what should libraries consider before implementing one?
This six-week asynchronous course provides a practical, non-technical introduction to AI agents and their potential applications in libraries and other mission-driven organizations. Through real-world examples, participants will explore how AI agents are developed, how they interact with information resources, and how organizations are using them to improve access to information, support learning, and enhance user experiences.
Participants will examine working AI agent projects, including a historical research agent developed to support access to California Gold Rush collections and a Youth Navigator agent designed to help young people discover careers, educational opportunities, and community resources. These examples provide a practical framework for understanding how AI agents can address real-world information and service challenges.
The course focuses on helping participants understand the possibilities, limitations, and practical considerations surrounding AI agents. Along the way, participants will explore questions related to ethics, accessibility, transparency, privacy, and user trust, while gaining the knowledge needed to evaluate AI tools within their own organizations.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain what AI agents are and how they differ from other AI tools.
- Identify current and emerging uses of AI agents in libraries and other organizations.
- Describe the key components involved in developing and maintaining an AI agent.
- Evaluate potential benefits, limitations, and risks associated with AI agent technologies.
- Assess whether an AI agent may be an appropriate solution for a particular service, project, or organizational need.
- Apply current best practices for the responsible and ethical use of AI technologies.
Who Should Attend
- Library directors and administrators
- Public, academic, school, and special library staff
- Technology and innovation leaders
- Continuing education and training coordinators
- Anyone seeking a practical understanding of AI agents and their potential impact on library services
No programming or technical background is required.
About the Instructor
Juan Rubio is an expert in educational technology who designs learning experiences with a focus on participatory design within an equity framework. He is currently an information technology learning expert at JR Learning Labs. He has designed curricula for professionals in cultural institutions such as Tribeca Film Institute, New York Department of Education, Brooklyn Public Library, and Carnegie Hall. Juan also previously served as the digital media and learning program manager at The Seattle Public Library. He has a Master’s degree in Media Studies from the New School University in New York City and studied film at Howard University School of Communications in Washington D.C.
ALA Guidance on Artificial Intelligence
Participants interested in learning more about the responsible use of artificial intelligence in library settings are encouraged to review ALA's guidance document Guidance for the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Libraries.
If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact us at ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.
Attendees are prohibited from using any artificial intelligence, machine learning, large language model, automated decision-making tool, or any other software or tools to train, develop, or improve any artificial intelligence system, machine learning model, or similar automated technology. This does not preclude attendees' personal use of AI notetaking tools for accessibility purposes.
