Library & Librarian FAQs (Digital Equity & AI Literacy Advocates

Library & Librarian FAQs (Digital Equity & AI Literacy Advocates)

1. How will an AI workshop benefit our library and community?
   A: A Shawissto AI workshop can help your library fulfill its mission of public education and digital inclusion in the 21st century. By hosting an AI workshop, you empower patrons with new knowledge and skills, ensuring no one in the community is left behind as technology advances. t positions the library as a go-to hub for learning about emerging tech in a safe, unbiased environment. For library staff, it’s an opportunity for professional development – increasing their competency with AI so they can better assist patrons. Moreover, such workshops align with core library values of equal access and lifelong learning: you’ll be helping people understand AI’s impact on their lives (from job opportunities to online safety) in a welcoming setting. In short, it keeps the library relevant and responsive to community needs, reinforcing our role as trusted guides in the digital age.

2. What topics do the AI workshops for libraries cover?
   A: Shawissto can cover a range of AI literacy topics tailored to libraries. Common workshop themes include “AI Literacy 101” – an introduction to what AI is, how machine learning works in simple terms, and why it matters to everyday people. We also offer workshops like “Demystifying AI for the Public”, which covers everyday uses of AI (like voice assistants or recommendation systems) and important cautions (bias, privacy, misinformation) in an accessible way. Given rising concerns, AI safety is often a key topic: sessions on spotting AI-driven scams, deepfakes, and protecting privacy online (libraries have noted the need for classes on “Artificial Intelligence and Scams” – and we deliver exactly that kind of content). For creative engagement, we have “AI for Creativity and Learning” workshops – for example, showing patrons how to use AI tools to write a short story or generate art. Another popular topic is “AI for Job Seekers” (using AI for résumé writing or interview practice, which some libraries have started doing). We can also do “AI and Accessibility” (demonstrating AI tools for people with disabilities, like AI-powered screen readers or translation tools).. We’ll work with you to choose topics that best serve your patrons, whether it’s foundational knowledge, safety and ethics, or practical applications.

3. Are these workshops for library staff or for patrons (the public)?
   A: We offer formats for both. Staff-focused workshops help librarians and educators build their own AI knowledge (think of it as professional development). For example, an “AI Literacy 101 for Library Staff & Educators” session can upskill your team on AI basics, so they feel confident integrating AI into services or discussing it with patrons[33]. On the other hand, patron-facing workshops are designed for your community members – these might include “AI Basics for Everyone,” “Being Safe with AI Online,” or special topics like AI for teens, seniors, job seekers, etc.[41][38]. Many libraries choose to do both: first, a staff training to get everyone comfortable, then public classes with Shawissto as a guest presenter or co-teacher. We’re happy to collaborate in whatever way maximizes impact. Even in patron workshops, we invite library staff to attend and observe, so they can later replicate or build on those programs. The approach is very flexible – our goal is to support your library in delivering AI literacy to all your audiences, internal and external.

4. What can librarians and participants expect during a Shawissto workshop?
   A: Expect an engaging, interactive session rather than a dry lecture. We know librarians appreciate organized content, so we come with a clear agenda and learning outcomes, but we keep things lively with demos and discussions[42][43]. A typical workshop might start with a relatable example or question to the group (“Have you ever used a voice assistant like Siri? That’s AI!”) to break the ice. We then introduce key concepts with visuals – minimal jargon, emphasizing real-world analogies. Participants might break into small groups for a quick exercise, like brainstorming where they see AI in daily life. We encourage Q&A throughout; librarians often have great questions about ethics or implementation, which we welcome. In hands-on portions, if it’s staff training, we might have you try an AI tool on a library scenario (e.g. use ChatGPT to draft a Facebook post about an upcoming event)[43]. For patron classes, we might do a group activity like collectively “teaching” an AI to tell a story. There’s always room for discussion about community impact and concerns, aligning with librarians’ critical perspective on tech. By the end, attendees will have not only learned something new but also tried something new, with guidance, in a supportive environment.

5. Do we (or our patrons) need technical expertise to benefit from these workshops?
   A: No advanced tech skills are needed. The workshops are designed to be approachable for all skill levels. We recognize that even among library staff, comfort with AI varies – about half of librarians feel they need more training in AI themselves[44]. Shawissto’s training is very much “start where you are.” We explain concepts from the ground up and define any buzzwords. If patrons are attending, we assume they have zero background in AI. Since libraries serve everyone, we present in plain language and often use library-relevant metaphors (for instance, comparing an AI’s training data to a “library collection” it draws from). We also address any confidence gaps: some staff or patrons might feel intimidated by tech, but we use hands-on practice to show them it’s not as hard as it sounds. Even those with basic computer skills (or who just use a smartphone and Facebook) will be able to follow along. And if your staff or patrons are already tech-savvy, they’ll still find value in the real-life examples and ethical discussions. In sum, these workshops welcome newbies and skeptics – curiosity is the only prerequisite!

6. How are the workshops delivered – can they be on-site at our library or online?
   A: We can do both, depending on what works best for you. On-site, in-person workshops at the library are great for hands-on interaction. We can come to your branch and run a session in a meeting room or computer lab. In-person formats allow us to assist participants individually and for people to network or discuss among themselves (which librarians often enjoy, as it builds a sense of community learning). If geography or scheduling is a challenge, we also offer webinars/online workshops. Virtual sessions can be easier to organize across multiple branches or for regional trainings – and we can record them for those who can’t attend live. Shawissto is also open to hybrid models (for example, a live workshop that is streamed to other locations). We provide supporting materials like slide decks or exercises in advance for online sessions, to make it smooth. Additionally, we’ve done “train-the-trainer” style deliveries: a live webinar for staff across libraries, where we not only teach about AI but also provide a template curriculum for librarians to use with patrons[45]. So, whether it’s an on-site staff day, a public program in your community room, or a virtual training via Zoom, we adapt to your needs. Our priority is to make it accessible and effective for your team and community.

7. How long are the sessions, and can they fit into our existing training or programming schedule?
   A: We typically design these as short workshops, often 1.5 to 2 hours for a single session. For staff trainings, a half-day (3-4 hour) workshop could be arranged if you want a deep dive, perhaps as part of a professional development day[46]. For patron workshops, 60 to 90 minutes tends to be a good length to introduce concepts and have Q&A without overwhelming people. We know libraries have tight programming slots, so we can adjust the duration as needed. We can also align with your scheduling patterns: for example, if your library often runs evening programs for adults or weekend tech classes, we’ll slot into those times. If doing multiple sessions (say a series), we might do one a week over a few weeks. The content is modular, so it’s fine to break it into two or three shorter sessions if that’s better for retention. And if you’re worrying about staff schedules – yes, we can do morning sessions before opening or lunch-and-learn formats for staff, too. Basically, we’re flexible: whether it’s an hour-long community talk or a half-day hands-on training, we’ll make it work within your schedule constraints.

8. Can Shawissto tailor a workshop to our community’s needs or a specific audience we serve?
   A: Absolutely. We know every library community is unique. Shawissto will work with you to customize the content. For instance, if your branch serves a lot of job seekers, we can emphasize how AI tools can help with career development (résumé writing, practicing interview questions with AI, etc.)[38]. If you have a big population of seniors, we can focus on AI safety and healthcare applications, aligning with what older adults care about. For teen audiences, we can make it fun and creative – maybe an “AI in video games and art” angle. We also consider language needs: if you serve a multilingual community, we can demonstrate translation AI tools or even incorporate bilingual instruction if possible[47]. We’ve even done genealogy-focused AI sessions in libraries that wanted to help patrons research family history with AI assistance[38]. Additionally, if your library has particular ethical stances or policies (e.g., you want to stress privacy, or avoid certain tools), we’ll incorporate that. Essentially, we’ll have a planning chat with you beforehand: you tell us about your audience – whether it’s parents, entrepreneurs, students, etc. – and any local initiatives (like a citywide digital literacy campaign or a community archive project). We then tailor the examples, use cases, and discussion to hit those targets. It’s not a canned presentation; it’s a collaboration to ensure relevance.

9. What about ethical concerns and AI safety – will those be addressed?
   A: Yes, very much so. Librarians are rightly concerned about issues like privacy, bias, and misinformation in AI[48]. Shawissto’s workshops always include a component on the responsible and safe use of AI. For example, we discuss the importance of not inputting sensitive patron data into public AI tools (to protect privacy) and explain how certain AI algorithms can have biases based on how they were trained – aligning with libraries’ mission to promote informed, ethical information use[49][31]. In a public-focused session, we’ll teach patrons how to spot deepfake images or AI-generated spam emails so they can avoid scams[50][51]. In staff sessions, we might delve into guidelines on evaluating AI tools (like checking if an AI service meets your library’s privacy standards) and how to answer patron questions about AI’s trustworthiness. We also reassure attendees that it’s okay to be critical of AI – the goal is not to hype the tech, but to empower people to use it wisely. Given libraries’ role as trusted knowledge stewards, we ensure the conversation around ethics is front and center. So you can expect a frank discussion of pros, cons, and best practices. By the end, participants will not only know cool things AI can do, but also what its limitations and risks are, and how to navigate those responsibly[35][36].

10. How can AI workshops help our patrons practically?
    A: In very tangible ways. After attending, patrons will have new skills and awareness that can improve their daily lives. For instance, a general “AI for Everyone” workshop will show an average community member how AI already appears in services they use (like how Google Translate or Netflix recommendations work) and how they might leverage AI themselves – maybe using a free app to organize their photos or get recipe ideas. If we do an “AI for Job Seekers” class, patrons could walk out knowing how to use an AI résumé builder or get coaching on interview answers, boosting their employment prospects[38]. A creative patron might discover AI tools for writing or art that spark a new hobby or project (we’ve seen attendees start writing short stories with AI assistance after a workshop, excited that they can be creative)[37]. For genealogists or local history buffs, learning about AI tools that colorize old photos or transcribe historical documents could enhance their research[38]. And importantly, patrons will learn how to stay safer online – recognizing scam red flags and understanding deepfakes – which is a huge practical benefit in today’s media environment[35][36]. Overall, the workshops turn AI from an abstract concept into a set of useful tools and knowledge that patrons can apply whether they’re looking for a job, trying to learn a skill, pursuing a personal passion, or just navigating the digital world more confidently.

11. Will we receive resources to continue learning or teaching after the workshop?
    A: Yes, Shawissto provides follow-up materials. For librarian trainings, we supply things like slide decks, reference lists, and even sample lesson plans so you can replicate activities with patrons[46][52]. You might get a “cheat sheet” summarizing key points (for example, definitions of AI terms in plain language, or links to recommended free AI tools). We know librarians often become trainers themselves, so we aim to empower you with resources – consider it a train-the-trainer kit. For patron workshops, we often leave behind flyers or handouts the library can distribute – such as a one-pager on “Top 5 Free AI Apps You Can Try at Home” or a bookmark with internet safety tips related to AI. If the session included interactive activities, we might provide worksheets or prompt examples used in class for patrons to tinker with later. We also encourage libraries to add AI books or media literacy info to displays, and we can suggest titles if helpful. Additionally, participants (staff or public) are often invited to join an email list or online group for ongoing tips. And of course, Shawissto is available for follow-up questions. Libraries have told us they appreciate that the workshop doesn’t feel one-and-done – we help build capacity so you can continue the AI learning journey in your programs, with plenty of support materials to back you up[46][45].

12. Our library budget is limited – can we still do this, and use AI tools, without big funding?
    A: We’re mindful of tight budgets. The workshops themselves can often be arranged at low cost, especially if they’re part of a grant or partnership. Shawissto sometimes works with library systems via grants focused on digital literacy, which can cover the fees, or we strive to keep costs reasonable so that budget isn’t a barrier. As for the tools we’ll introduce – almost all are free or have free versions for educational use. For example, if we demonstrate an AI chatbot or a creative tool, it’s usually something the public can access online without a subscription. We know that 62% of libraries cite budget as a major concern with adopting AI[53], so we specifically highlight affordable solutions. Also, bringing in an expert like Shawissto can be cost-effective in that it saves staff time (we’ve already developed the curriculum and expertise). You might also justify the expense by tying it to your library’s strategic goals (digital inclusion, etc.) or using Friends group support. In some cases, libraries collaborate (several branches chip in, or a regional library consortium sponsors the training for multiple libraries). Finally, offering AI workshops can attract community interest and possibly donations or local sponsorships once people see the library at the forefront of tech education. We can advise on seeking funding – but bottom line, we’ll work with what you have. The focus is on free knowledge and tools, so your patrons and staff get maximum benefit with minimal financial outlay[54][55].

13. How do we attract diverse patrons (including non-tech-savvy folks) to attend an AI workshop?
    A: Great question – inclusive outreach is key. We recommend framing the workshop in a way that speaks to everyday needs and interests. Instead of calling it a high-tech “AI seminar,” we might advertise it as “Come learn how to spot fake videos and keep your family safe online” or “See how a free AI tool can help with genealogy or small business marketing,” depending on the audience[56][57]. In our experience, patrons who might tune out “AI” as a buzzword will respond when they see a concrete benefit (“save time,” “avoid scams,” “have fun with art”)[56][58]. Partnering with trusted community figures helps too. For example, we’ve written blurbs for library newsletters or church bulletins like: “This Wednesday at 1pm, come to a free seminar on avoiding AI scams, hosted by Janice Temple”[59][60]. When people hear about it through familiar channels (their pastor, a community group, local newspaper, etc.), they’re more likely to come. We also suggest emphasizing that it’s for everyone – no tech background needed – right in the event description. Offer simple incentives: maybe refreshments or a raffle for attendees, if appropriate. And highlight the library’s role: e.g. “Your library invites you to explore AI in a friendly, no-judgment zone.” For non-tech-savvy patrons, sometimes a personal touch works: library staff can personally invite regulars who might benefit (“Hey, Ms. Smith, we have a class on using Alexa for helpful things, I think you’d enjoy it.”). We provide flyers and easy-to-share descriptions to help with this outreach. By demystifying the topic in your promotions, you’ll draw a wide range of patrons – including those who didn’t even know AI was for them.

14. Can Shawissto train our staff to lead AI programs themselves (a train-the-trainer approach)?
    A: Yes, we love empowering library staff to carry the torch forward. In a train-the-trainer workshop, Shawissto would not only teach the content but also provide meta-tips on how to teach it. For instance, as we go through an “AI for Beginners” lesson, we’ll highlight why we explain things a certain way and how to answer common patron questions. We provide template slides and activities that your staff can reuse for patron programs[45]. Think of it as getting a ready-made curriculum along with the know-how to deliver it. We also discuss facilitation strategies, like how to handle a patron who is struggling or one who asks a challenging question about AI ethics. By the end, your team should feel ready to replicate similar workshops on their own. Some libraries start with Shawissto doing the first public sessions and library staff observing, then later the staff co-lead and eventually take over using our materials. We’re very open to that model, as the ultimate goal is sustainable programming. Additionally, even after a train-the-trainer session, we remain a resource – staff can email or call with questions as they prepare to run a program. This approach maximizes the value of our partnership: you don’t just get one workshop, you get the ability to continue offering AI education as an ongoing library service.

15. Who conducts the workshops, and what are their qualifications?
    A: Shawissto workshops are led by experienced, culturally aware AI educators. The founder, Janice Temple, often facilitates sessions herself. Janice is not only knowledgeable about AI, but also a Black woman entrepreneur and community storyteller, which helps her connect with diverse audiences (including communities of color and multi-generational groups)[61]. Participants frequently comment that they feel at ease because the instructor “gets” their context and needs[13]. Janice/our facilitators have a background in digital literacy outreach – meaning they have likely worked in library or nonprofit settings and understand the values of intellectual freedom, privacy, and inclusion that librarians hold dear[62][49]. We’re not software salespeople or abstract researchers; we’re educators who prioritize a warm, patient teaching style. Shawissto is also a Black-owned, woman-owned business deeply rooted in community empowerment (Janice Temple’s own mission aligns with uplifting underrepresented groups in tech). This credibility and approachability matter – librarians can trust that the workshop leader will be both technically proficient and tuned into issues like equity and ethics. So, your staff and patrons will be learning from someone who is professional, vetted, and passionate about AI for the public good. (If you’d like a specific facilitator’s bio or references, Shawissto can provide that – but rest assured, you’re in good hands with our team.)