University Library Collaboratively Responds to AI Revolution

Artificial intelligence is stirring up change across Iowa State University.  

Researchers are embracing AI-based research strategies. Instructors are adapting courses and policies to the growing use of AI. Students are experimenting with new technologies while navigating classroom policies that range from encouragement to bans. 

As AI seeps into the daily life of academia, many are left asking, “What exactly is AI?” “How does it work?” and “How can I use it?” Swirling in this whirl of questions are concerns over ethics, bias, privacy, and more.  

“Individuals across disciplines, colleges, and stations come to us with questions and concerns. And this is true for AI as well. When ChatGPT was released, the questions started coming in immediately,” said Hannah Scates Kettler, associate university librarian for academic services. 

To meet this demand, the University Library recognized the need to support staff in this emerging area. 

University Library, ISU Extension and Outreach Join Forces 

Following an internal call for proposals concerning AI within the University Library, a proposal was developed for a workshop series to demystify AI and prepare staff to address questions from the campus community.   

Curtis Brundy, Iowa State’s associate university librarian for scholarly communication and collections, kickstarted the development of the series by reaching out to the Civic Engagement and Equity team within the Community and Economic Development unit of Iowa State Extension and Outreach to assist in facilitating the workshops. 

Scott Samuelson, who has a joint appointment in philosophy and Extension and Outreach, worked with Kate Garretson, an instruction librarian, and Brundy to put together a three-part series open to library staff that took place in January and February of this year. 

AI Workshop Initiative 

The dynamic three-part workshop series blended theoretical insights and practical hands-on experience to elevate library staff’s understanding of AI in higher education and research library environments. 

Leveraging his expertise in philosophy and ethics, Samuelson kicked off the first workshop by addressing the core ethical issues and concepts surrounding AI. The second session, developed by Garretson, took a more interactive approach, allowing participants to experiment with a dozen AI tools and discuss their benefits and drawbacks. In the final workshop, Samuelson guided discussions on AI's appropriate and inappropriate uses within the library setting. 

"With over forty staff in attendance, the workshops were a big success. Scott's philosophical perspective on AI and our practical exploration of tools created a robust learning environment that left staff feeling confident and well-prepared to serve the campus community," Garretson said.

Looking Forward  

“AI is here to stay, and we recognize that research libraries have a vital role to play in helping the academic community navigate the opportunities and challenges that AI brings,” said Scates Kettler, associate university librarian for academic services.   

The workshop, webpage, and webinar are just a few of the many efforts the library has undertaken while embracing its new role in AI literacy.  

Hilary Seo, dean of the Iowa State University Library, appointed the following leaders to an internal task force to explore the use of AI to build campus partnerships in this area, and coordinate efforts across units in the library. Leaders of the task force are Brundy, Scates  Kettler, and Lisa Smith, senior manager information technology systems.  

Among task force activities is the development of an AI Playground to give faculty, staff, and students a venue for hands-on exploration of AI tools. The University Library has also updated its Library 1600 course to address AI and continues to improve it based on student feedback. 

Additionally, the University Library is collaborating with Montana State University and James Madison University to develop resources for the ethical use of AI in libraries and archives, funded by a $248,220 National Leadership Grants for Libraries Program.   

“Looking ahead, the library is eager to collaborate with scholars across disciplines to undertake new initiatives that enhance open access, understanding, and literacy in AI,” Scates Kettler said. 

Samuelson echoed the call for collaboration, “I welcome the chance to work with scholars and the University Library to enhance AI literacy and explore the ethics of AI.”