Recording: The Human Advantage — Championing the Value of Librarians in the Age of AI

As artificial intelligence becomes more visible in library services, many professionals are asking an important question: where do humans fit?

This session explores the powerful truth that while AI can assist with tasks, it cannot replace the judgement, ethics, relationships, and insight that librarians bring to their communities every day.

In this practical and thought-provoking session, Helen Rimmer helps you identify the unique strengths of the library profession and learn how to confidently communicate their value in an AI-shaped world.

You’ll explore where AI works well, where its limitations lie, and why human expertise remains central to trusted information services. Most importantly, you’ll leave with clear language and practical tools to advocate for the role of librarians with leaders, stakeholders, and the communities you support.

Whether you’re feeling curious, cautious, or uncertain about AI, this session will help you reframe the conversation from fear to confidence.

In this session you’ll learn:

What AI can and cannot do in library environments
The unique human skills that technology cannot replicate
How to recognise and explain the blind spots of AI
Practical ways to advocate for the value of librarians
Clear talking points you can use with leaders, funders, and stakeholders

This recording includes:

Full session recording
Slides and session materials
Practical advocacy ideas you can apply immediately

This session is ideal for library staff who want to understand AI without losing sight of the human expertise that sits at the heart of library work.

Empower members can access this session free inside the Learning Zone.

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