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In the form of generative AI, libraries are facing technological transformation of unprecedented speed and scale. Both controversial and disruptive, the sudden ubiquity of AI has already triggered uncertainty as well as the need for rapid adaptation. As AI reshapes how humans learn, work, and interact with information, libraries across the ecosystem—from public to academic, from school to special libraries—must resist the temptation to merely serve as static support and instead claim the center by becoming a dynamic, positive influence. Because, as the authors of this book persuasively argue, libraries are uniquely positioned to lead AI’s ethical and human-centered integration within communities. Blending theory and concepts with an unswervingly pragmatic approach, from this book readers will

• be introduced to foundational principles and frameworks for navigating the so-called “Age of Intelligence” that provide useful guiderails no matter how AI technology actively evolves;
• delve into the complex ethical considerations of AI, including bias, equity, privacy, misinformation, and the potential impact on human agency and dignity;
• receive guidance related to stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, and the need for continuous learning and adaptation;
• discover practical models for evaluating and implementing AI tools thoughtfully and effectively in ways that align with libraries’ values and mission;
• become familiar with STACKS, an approach for learning, problem solving, and innovation with generative AI;
• explore AI literacy as an expression of metaliteracy using seven frames for instruction and learning; and
• walk away with a sense of how libraries can actively define their essential role as leaders and shapers of the AI landscape, ensuring their continued value and preventing marginalization.

As this book demonstrates, by embracing their unique position as ethical stewards and trusted guides, libraries have an unprecedented opportunity to shape how AI transforms society—not from the margins, but from the center of a shared future.

From the moment the pandemic took hold in Spring 2020, libraries and library workers have demonstrated their fortitude and flexibility by adapting to physical closures, social distancing guidelines, and a host of other challenges. Despite the obstacles, they’ve been able to stay connected to their communities—and helped connect the people in their communities to each other, as well as to the information and services they need and enjoy. Ostman and ALA’s Public Programs Office (PPO) here present a handpicked cross-section of successful programs, most of them virtual, from a range of different libraries. Featuring events designed to support learning, spark conversation, create connection, or simply entertain, the ideas here will inspire programming staff to try similar offerings at their own libraries. Showcasing innovation in action as well as lessons learned, programs include

• COVID-19 Misinformation Challenge, featuring an email quiz, to encourage participants to separate fact from fiction; 
• weekly virtual storytimes;
• community cooking demonstrations via Zoom;
• an online grocery store tour, complete with tips about shopping healthy on a budget;
• a virtual beer tasting that boasted 80 attendees;
• socially distanced "creativity crates" for summer reading;
• an online Minecraft club for kids ages 6 and up;
• a Zoom presentation about grieving and funerals during COVID, featuring the director of a local funeral home;
• Art Talk Tuesday, a one-hour, docent-led program; 
• a virtual lecture on the history of witchcraft, presented by a public library in partnership with a university rare book room, that drew thousands of viewers;
• "knitting for knewbies" kits for curbside pickup;
• Songs from the Stacks, an ongoing virtual concert series in the style of NPR’s “Tiny Desk”;
• a pink supermoon viewing party that included people howling at the moon together from their homes on Facebook Live;
• and many others