Poster 5: Empowering Future-Ready Learners: Bringing AI Literacy into the School Library

As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms how we access and engage with information, much like the internet did in the early 2000s, school librarians are uniquely positioned to prepare students for this shift. At the center of school communities, librarians can integrate AI concepts like data, algorithms, ethics, and machine learning into engaging, accessible programs that foster digital literacy. With AI increasingly shaping the content students consume, it’s essential they understand not only how to evaluate sources but also how information is produced. By teaching foundational AI skills, librarians can help students verify validity, cite credible sources, and use AI tools to make informed decisions. This session will explore how AI literacy aligns with the AASL National School Library Standards and highlight the librarian’s role as a digital learning leader. Participants will discover free, high-quality AI resources from Code.org—recently named a 2025 AASL Best Digital Tool—designed for K–12 learners with no prior coding experience. Real-world examples from a practicing librarian and AI advocate will show how AI learning empowers students as critical thinkers and responsible digital citizens. Whether new to AI or expanding existing offerings, attendees will leave with practical tools to bring meaningful AI literacy into their school libraries.