2024 Core Forum

With the continued improvement of AI tools and the growing popularity of such tools, it is increasingly important for library users to understand how AI functions and the nature of the information they receive when using AI tools. However, on a campus facing resource constraints and distrust of AI, getting buy-in on programming and instruction that discusses AI can be difficult. The library sought out campus partnerships with faculty, Career Services, TRIO programs, and Admissions to increase awareness of AI and to increase buy-in. Through instruction sessions and participation in existing campus programming, the library was able to initiate a greater number of conversations about AI on campus, which has increased interest in further programming and instruction. This poster aims to help other libraries identify potential partnerships on campus and give librarians tools to develop programming and instruction around AI in collaboration with other departments.

This poster presentation will explore the "In the Margins" project at an academic library makerspace. This collection of books, journals, and activity books encourages students to underline, highlight, and draw in the pages. For centuries, libraries have discouraged these behaviors. Marginalia, or reader-generated notes and embellishments within a text, are typically considered a form of damage, but present a unique opportunity in library makerspaces. As libraries invite users to move from information consumers to creators, they ought to consider if there is value in preserving, sharing, and even soliciting marginalia from their communities. Attendees will learn how this experimental collection was implemented and consider how it contributes to the creative culture of the library.

In an increasingly asynchronous world, libraries are faced with the challenge of offering service hours and access to library spaces in ways that meet their users' needs. One emerging solution is self service access, which extends service beyond regularly staffed hours. As a complement to traditional staffed hours, these new service models can be a valuable addition by offering patrons the opportunity to use their libraries when it best suits their schedules. In this session, four Minnesota library systems will share their experiences with self service building access solutions. By the end of this session, attendees will understand how these technologies can be implemented in different ways for various service models and communities. They will also discuss the broader impact on both frontline staff and library users in their diverse mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities.

Representatives from the committee and other practitioners will discuss the latest news and questions about browser technology changes, troubleshooting, Federated Credential Management (FedCM), results from the 2023 Library Automation Perceptions Survey, and whatever is on the audience's mind. How are changes affecting your institution's current authentication system? How are resource vendors responding? Ask questions and make suggestions. If we can't address your concern in the session, we'll make sure the Core Authentication and Authorization Committee gets details out to the community in future communications. The FA Committee web page has resources that provide an understanding of authentication technology from foundational to expert. This session follows up on previous information sessions at ALA and Core Forum

Explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionize libraries by enhancing accessibility, streamlining operations, and fostering community connections. In this session, Brian Pichman will share innovative AI applications tailored for libraries, focusing on open and transparent solutions that empower both public and academic institutions. Discover strategies for integrating AI technologies in marketing, user interaction, and information dissemination, ensuring libraries remain at the forefront of knowledge and technology in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Join library staff members, as they delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT within the context of public libraries. Amidst continuous media attention and daily technological changes, the library proactively formed a cross-departmental AI task force to monitor advancements and its impact to libraries.

In this session titled, "If I hear the word AI one more time" we invite you to explore the task force findings, focusing on their relevance to library customers and staff. The presenters will not only discuss the benefits of AI technology for libraries but also underscore the associated challenges, including biases and inaccuracies.

These recent technological strides have sparked dialogues among our peers and customers. We'll discuss how AI can enhance staff productivity and how libraries can support customer adoption. As gateways to knowledge, libraries have a pivotal role to play in facilitating the safe use of AI.

So, gear up for a lively and interactive discussion. Join us as we demystify AI together!

Traditionally, web accessibility efforts concentrated on providing alternative text for images, employing proper heading structures, and ensuring videos were accompanied by captions. However, the landscape of web accessibility has evolved significantly since the U.S. 2021 Executive Order, which integrated Accessibility into Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (now DEIA) initiatives. This shift has heightened the focus on making websites universally accessible.

My goal is to demystify the process of enhancing your website's compliance with DEIA. This non-technical session is designed to guide attendees through the essential adjustments needed to embrace this broader perspective on accessibility. We'll explore the critical role of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and offer a glimpse into the forthcoming standard. Join me to learn how to make your website not only accessible but also inclusive, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.