Patron Training

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how people find information, complete everyday tasks, and interact with technology. The topics listed below are achievable starting points for any library, regardless of staff capacity or prior experience with the topic.

  • Demystify AI: Central to AI literacy is understanding what AI is and isn’t. Training that recognizes AI limitations as well as AI benefits is a good place to start with patrons. Topics may include how to evaluate information generated by AI and where information from an AI tool comes from. 
  • Address Privacy: Patrons often don't know what data AI tools collect, how it may be stored, or how their interactions could be used. Programming should help patrons understand basic privacy considerations and, where applicable, how to review or adjust settings in the tools they use.

Libraries that want to go further can build on these foundations with programming on topics like AI in the workplace, creative uses of AI, or evaluating AI-generated media. 

Below, we've included examples and resources to help you develop and deliver AI training for your community, as well as materials you can direct patrons to for further learning.  Remember since no two communities are the same it’s important to customize training examples for those who live and work in your locale.

Sample Training

Kent District (Michigan) Library, Level Up Your Career with AI slides (PDF)

Loutit District (Michigan) Library, Are You Smarter Than a Chatbot slides (PDF)

CommonSense Media, AI Toolkit for Families

Elements of AI (website in multiple languages)

Last updated July 8, 2026