Academic libraries and AI: from principles to practice
A three part webinar series exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping learning, discovery and core library workflows and what academic librarians can do about it.
Across teaching and learning, discovery environments and back of house workflows, AI is becoming embedded in the systems and platforms users rely on every day. That raises real questions for libraries:
- How do we support genuine learning when AI mediates academic work
- How do library collections and services remain visible as research moves into AI chat environments?
- What changes when AI shifts staff time from manual tasks to professional judgment?
This webinar series brings together librarians, researchers and practitioners to examine what this shift means in practice, and how libraries can engage with AI thoughtfully, responsibly and effectively.
Each session stands on its own. Together, they offer a grounded view of AI as part of the academic library ecosystem.
Session 1: Genuine learning in the age of AI
A panel discussion
Thursday, June 4, 2026
11:00 am ET
AI tools are increasingly embedded in how students read, write and research. This session focuses on the implications for learning itself.
Panelists explore what “genuine learning” looks like when AI plays a mediating role, and how academic libraries can support critical thinking, academic integrity and meaningful engagement with sources. The discussion centers on human judgment, pedagogy and the values libraries bring to the academic enterprise.
This session is for librarians involved in instruction, scholarly communication and campus conversations about AI and learning.
Session 2: Your library inside AI chat platforms
Bringing library services into the environments users already inhabit
Wednesday, June 17
12 pm ET
Academic work is increasingly happening inside AI chat tools. When those tools mediate discovery, library resources and services risk being bypassed.
This session examines how libraries can responsibly connect their collections and services to AI environments their users already rely on. Drawing on early experience with academic library partners, the discussion explores emerging standards, practical integration approaches and the strategic choices libraries face as AI becomes part of the research infrastructure.
This session is for librarians thinking about discovery, systems architecture and the future visibility of the library.
Session 3: AI in practice: how academic libraries are transforming core workflows
Evidence from the Academic AI Impact Study
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
11:00 am ET
Hosted by Library Journal
There is no shortage of claims about AI’s potential. This webinar focuses on documented impact.
Based on in depth interviews with library professionals across eight institutions, this session examines how AI is reshaping core workflows such as course reading list preparation and metadata cataloguing. Participants from the study share what changed in their day to day work, why human oversight remains essential and what library leaders should consider as they evaluate adoption.
This session is for librarians responsible for operations, technical services and strategic planning.
