Libraries Lead!

This episode examines the ascent of library science education  from the academic periphery to becoming central to the modern university within Information Schools (iSchools). Over the past fifty years, the field has transformed from a niche, single-degree program into broad-based, robust, multi-program iSchool powerhouses with significant research funding and enrollments. But, iSchools exist within universities, and universities today are facing a "perfect storm" of severe enrollment declines ( the 2026 demographic cliff), mounting fiscal pressures, and a shifting cultural landscape. One “solution” taken by some is to merge and consolidate schools and departments. According to recent 2025–2026 data, nearly 20% of university presidents have engaged in serious merger discussions. This is called, the "Great Consolidation." In this episode we examine  the implications of this consolidation, and whether it is the right move or misguided in relation to the field, universities, and society.

Libraries aspire to be a place where everyone belongs — and in Episode 50, we explore what that commitment looks like in today's world. Far from simply reaffirming tradition, libraries are actively expanding their roles, From welcoming undocumented community members without fear, to opening their doors to neighbors experiencing homelessness, to providing access and safe spaces for student well-being in schools, libraries are fulfilling their function as true public sanctuaries. At the same time, the reversal of federal protected areas policies has put libraries in a new and uncertain position, with staff navigating real questions about how to keep their doors open and welcoming to all.Library leaders are also navigating the very real tension between serving their most vulnerable patrons and maintaining a safe, comfortable environment where families and community members of all backgrounds feel welcome. We talk policy, we talk heart, and we talk about the librarians and staff who show up every day to make sure no one is turned away.

America's obsession with crime, from Serial to Investigation Discovery marathons, runs deep, and libraries are right there with our patrons, stocking the thrillers and hosting the book clubs.  But in Episode 49, Dave, Beth, and Mike ask a harder question: what lies beneath every cold case, wrongful conviction, and uninvestigated crime? The answer, again and again, is an information failure. Witness statements that never get digitized. Rape kit backlogs numbering in the hundreds of thousands. Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women who vanish from official databases as easily as they vanish from news coverage. Algorithms trained on biased data that tell police where to patrol and judges who to detain.  From the Golden State Killer's multi-decade run across jurisdictions that weren't sharing data, to the Nancy Guthrie abduction case and the stark disparities it reveals about whose stories get resources, this episode explores how the architecture of information systems shapes who gets justice, and who gets erased.NOTE: This episode discusses true crime cases and includes discussions of violent crime, sexual assault missing persons cases, and the systematic failures that leave victims and families without justice.

Some say it’s theft, some call Generative AI a collaborator, many see the underpinnings of AI as simply remixing what is. Yet, the ideas of theft, remixing, and collaboration are all firmly founded in the arts. From pop art to hip hop, the idea of creation through imitation and derivation has a long tradition. Renaissance painters learned and made a living from copying their masters. Song covers like Luke Comb’s Fast Car and, yes, even The Beatles “Twist and Shout” have become more well known than the originals.In this episode we look at AI filling our playlists, our literary magazines, and gulp, even our library shelves. Does an embrace of AI alienate institutions like libraries from their communities, or is it an embrace of a new creative medium? How do you draw the line between AI slop and AI assist?

Let’s stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and look around at the world that we humans have created and that we inhabit. Here’s a  snapshot of what it's like to live day to day in 2026 with smartphones, the Internet, Web, AI, social media, augmented reality, and all the other digital systems that we rely on in various aspects of our lives - work, social relationships, entertainment, politics, communications & information.In this episode, we consider the nature, joy and despair and the challenges and opportunities that we deal with every day in the digital age. Are we in control? Are we merely pawns in their game? Are we caught up in mindless compulsions and addictions? Or is this the moment where institutions like libraries can help us become neither victims nor isolated users, but informed communities who collectively decide what these technologies should do for us?"

In this groundbreaking crossover episode, two podcasts (with Syracuse roots) – Libraries Lead and Infoversity – unite to explore the future of library education. Dr. Beth Patin, Associate Professor and newly appointed Program Director for the MS in Library and Information Science program, sits down with Dean Jeff Hemsley for an in-depth conversation about preparing the next generation of information professionals for an uncertain and rapidly changing world.As fellow University of Washington iSchool alumni, Beth and Jeff bring shared values and complementary perspectives to urgent questions facing the profession. How do we balance traditional library foundations with emerging technologies like AI? What does it mean to be "information first responders" in communities facing compounding crises? And how can library education center justice, equity, and community resilience while maintaining technical excellence.Beth shares her vision for the MSLIS program, one that moves decisively from managing collections to building community capacity. Drawing on her award-winning research on epistemicide (the systematic silencing and devaluing of knowledge systems) and her experiences rebuilding libraries after Hurricane Katrina, she makes the case that librarians don't just steward books: they steward what communities remember and forget. In an era of AI hallucinations, misinformation epidemics, and social isolation, libraries matter more than ever as trusted anchors of information access and community connection.The conversation explores concrete initiatives transforming the Syracuse MSLIS curriculum: embedding AI literacy throughout coursework, preparing students for crisis response, developing community partnerships like the 10th Mountain Division archive project, and teaching students to recognize and interrupt epistemic injustice through frameworks like the Sankofa Intervention. Beth introduces key concepts including "parasitic omission" and "beneficent gatekeeping", mechanisms through which knowledge gets systematically excluded from collections and curricula.Jeff and Beth also tackle the AI moment in libraries, discussing Leo Lo's framework for AI literacy.Whether you're considering library school, working in the field, or simply curious about how libraries are evolving to meet 21st-century challenges, this crossover episode offers both inspiration and practical insights into reimagining library education for a world that desperately needs what librarians do best: building informed, engaged, resilient communities.

In case we don't have enough to worry about, in May 2025, a Federal Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals judge dismissed free speech claims in a public library book removal case in Texas. The Court ruled that library collection decisions are “government speech” and therefore not protected by the First Amendment.  This is a very very serious ruling. If it stands, there are far-reaching control issues and effects on all types of libraries, education institutions, and communities. The library plaintiffs supported by library administrations, publishers, literary groups, and intellectual freedom advocates have petitioned the Supreme Court of the US to hear the case and hopefully overrule it.  In this episode, we explain the issue in-depth, discuss the implications of the case and ruling, and sound the alarm as to why this is so important for libraries and librarians to ensure freedom of information protections in our country. 

Saskia Scheltjens is the model of the curious information guru. She has worked in the university and museum world in Belgium and the Netherlands, and is currently Head of Research Services at the Rijksmuseum, the Netherlands. Her work at the Rijksmuseum has set the standard for accessibility, data management, and creating truly hybrid cultural heritage institutions. In this episode she talks to David about how AI is another tool to manage information, and how a dedication to open access might need to be rethought in an era of generative AI.

From natural disasters to social unrest to ongoing political and cultural attacks, libraries have consistently stepped up as safe havens, hubs for reliable information, and anchors of resilience.   Yes, communities turn to libraries in moments of crisis. But, libraries too face crises – especially right now when our very mission is threatened. There’s a rising tide of book bans, ideological attacks on intellectual freedom, and the politicization of education. Libraries need community advocacy, trust, and sustained support. It's past time for action – for both libraries and communities!  In this live podcast episode at the Library Journal 2025 Directors’ Summit we focus on the relationship between libraries and the communities they serve, especially during troubling times. How can libraries step up even more to provide essential information services and infrastructure - particularly in times of crisis - and to play essential roles in strengthening communities? In turn, how can communities in all settings ensure that the people who lead and sustain these institutions are supported and protected to carry the work forward?

Erik Boekesteijn, Senior Advisor National Library of the Netherlands, is a self-described Global Library motivator and Library Pirate. In this bonus episode, Dave and Erik talk about story telling and future thinking.Recorded at the AI in Cultural Heritage Institutions September 9, 2025 Meeting.

Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s near and dear to us: the pathways into librarianship and the broader information professions—the credentials, the professional development, and, honestly, the things we didn’t learn in library school. Right now, higher education is being squeezed from every direction. Financial pressures are mounting with cuts to research and development funding, and uncertainty around international student enrollment is making things even more complicated. This has ripple effects for library and information science degree programs, continuing education, and the critical training we need for support staff who are the backbone of library and information services.We all bring perspectives from both sides of the desk. We’ve been librarians, taught in highly ranked LIS programs, and worked directly with librarians, library staff, and information workers on the ground every day. In this episode, we explore what’s happening on campuses and in libraries, how professional pathways are shifting, and where the future of librarianship and the information field might be headed. Stick around as we unpack the challenges, opportunities, and maybe a few surprises about what it really takes to build and sustain a career in the library and information world. 

This semester (Autumn 2025), Dave is teaching a course off AI in Cultural Heritage Institutions. For that he is talking with global experts in libraries and museums about AI and its impact. We offer some of these conversations as bonus episodes, and here’s the first:  Aaron Chaote is Director of Research & Strategy at the University of Texas Libraries. He focuses, “on research and innovation in libraries, archives, and museums - working with and studying the impact technology innovations have on systems and services and the people that rely on them.” Aaron and Dave talk about creating AI catalog records with “confidence scores.” The result is (perhaps) better access, but without human validation or sign off. Hmmm...we wonder, will libraries and librarians now have to to accept more randomness and less authority in our work.

There has been an assault on knowledge institutions in the past 8 months. Added to attacks on libraries are attempts to shape and control universities, museums, and federal agencies like the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the National Institutes of Health. Besides executive actions, there have been important judicial decisions that have massive implications for libraries, such as defining libraries as government speech and challenging book banning laws.The goal of these attacks on our knowledge institutions is "enDumbification." "Dumbification" refers to the act or process of making something less informative or someone less intelligent, often to the point of decline in critical thinking skills. The prefix "en-" generally means "in," "into," or "cause to be" indicating a state of being or transformation. In this episode, we dig into this ongoing enDumbification, aka epistemicide, playing out across our cultural and educational institutions. From the Smithsonian framing history through a sanitized, white-centered lens, to school curricula that erase Indigenous, Black, and marginalized perspectives, we’re seeing a dangerous pattern of knowledge destruction. It’s showing up in the surge of book bans targeting authors of color and LGBTQ+ voices, and in political moves from the Department of Education that suppress critical inquiry. We’re also living in a media landscape where celebrity fitness trainers like Jillian Michaels are bizarrely asked by major news outlets to comment on the legacy of slavery, while PragerU’s agenda-driven videos are floated as replacements for trusted information sources like PBS. It's time for us to talk about how we respond when truth itself is under siege.

 Aughhhh!!! We knew this was coming, but it still hurts – even more. As part of the chain-saw destruction of much of the US federal government, the Institute for Museum and Library Services has been eliminated to the maximum extend of the law and ordered to reduce services and personnel to the minimum required by law. All budget requests from IMLS are rejected except those to shut down the agencies. And yes, the Executive Order usurps the intent of Congress.    According to ALA, “[l]ibrary funding draws less than 0.003% of the annual federal budget yet has enormous impact in communities nationwide.” The Libraries Lead team knows this firsthand having received R&D funding from IMLS and through working with libraries of all kinds across the US. It’s a tsunami and the effects are massive. In this episode, we share our disgust and anger at the devastating actions by the Tump administration. This is a gut punch and we need to catch our collective breaths, celebrate this outstanding agency, and then figure out what we can do individually and together to fight back.

With Dave on vacation, Beth & Mike also take a break from the challenges and issues facing the library & information field. Since both are both avid sports fans and since it’s “March Madness” (college basketball’s post-season extravaganza) time, they build on last month’s “information perspective” by taking a look at the entire phenomenon while wearing their library & information-colored glasses. So, fill out your brackets, grab a beverage and snacks, root for your favorite teams, and join Beth & Mike as they share and challenge each other’s perceptions and predictions.

 All three of us are hopelessly biased. We look at the world through “information-colored glasses.” This means that when we engage in any and all aspects of human life – work, play, learning – we can’t help but consider what’s going on from an information perspective. In any situation or in relation to any “person, place, or thing,” we almost unconsciously begin to identify and ponder the nature and influence of all things information including (but not limited to ) information systems, processes, artifacts, resources, management, behaviors, and ethics.  We find this information perspective to be incredibly valuable and interesting as we try to make sense of “life, the universe, and everything else.” We’ve studied, taught, presented, and applied an information perspective in many many settings.  Therefore, in this episode of the Libraries Lead podcast, we share the information perspective in terms of what, why, and how it may be useful for you too to put on “information-colored glasses.”

From the Libraries Lead Podcast - February 2025, AI Watch Segment. In this 12 minute video, Dave Lankes explains why DeepSeek is such a big deal. Then, he blows our minds by demonstrating how DeepSeek works and maybe even ... thinks(?) because DeepSeek includes its "chain of thought reasoning and prompting" as it answers questions. Take a look and listen for "under-the-hood" insights into DeepSeek and other AIs.Audio only is available here. For the full video of this bonus episode, please go to - https://librarieslead.libraryjournal.com/2025/02/02/ai-watch-feb-2025-deepseek/

 Library & information science for decades has focused on the “user” perspective in systems and services. This includes HCI (human-computer interaction), interfaces, features in search and catalog systems, and ways of improving services (e.g., online/chat reference, maker spaces, events). We provide systems, resources, and services and users use them. Furthermore, "users (or customers) know best," so we should develop and improve systems primarily through user feedback.  But maybe it’s time to move on from piecemeal innovations or improvements for customers, and consider people as whole persons and their places in "community."  A customer orientation implies short-term interactions while people in communities are there for the long haul. In this episode, the Libraries Lead team considers this alternative approach and discusses what this might look like for all types of libraries as well as the major information and social media systems used extensively today. 

In the beginning … of our dot com digital age (roughly from the late 1970s) … there was a expectation that information and computer technology (ICT) would be a boon to society. Technology could be liberating rather than oppressing. The hope was that new products and services (e.g., personal computers, the Internet, the WWW, search engines, smart phones, social media)  would lead to a more equitable, open, and free society. Sadly, that didn’t happen. Instead, the pervasive goal in ICT became monetization—to make a buck and to maximize profits as much and as quickly as possible. In this episode we’re not going to argue whether this is good or bad thing. We accept that the dominant characteristic in ICT was and still is the drive for commercial triumph. And with an information economy estimated to be around $5.5 trillion today (and growing), there is success beyond anyone’s wildest dreams. Instead, we want to examine the implications of all this profit-seeking in the information sector. We’ve become aware of a disturbing trend: the decline of the quality in online products and services over time. This phenomenon is described in a Wikipedia entry as “Enshittification” where vendors and entrepreneurs initially “create high-quality offerings to attract users, then they degrade those offerings to better serve business customers, and finally degrade their services to users and business customers to maximize profits for shareholders.”  How big of a concern is enshittification in relation to the nature and quality of information resources and services in the commercial and public sectors? And of course, do we see this trend in the library world as well?

Dave explores NotebookLM’s podcasting feature. NotebookLM is an AI system from Google that lets you create a workspace around documents that summarizes, creates study guides, and much more. One of the features is creating an “Audio Overview” that transforms your notes and documents into a two person podcast. Dave was impressed, see what you think.  And let us know!! Email [email protected] Post on our Facebook group: Libraries Lead.   Instagram  librarieslead  (no space)

The election is over, and the reactions are emotional and raw. Some people are cheering; others crying. America is still as divided politically and socially as the day before. Putting those things aside, let’s look ahead from an information & library perspective. What’s in store for us as individuals, families and communities? Are there lessons learned from the campaigns and result from an information perspective? What might the next few years look like for libraries and librarians and those who use and rely on library resources and service? Are there opportunities for libraries to serve and thrive or will it require us to play defense in order to simply survive?

Natural and human-made crises, disasters, emergencies, and catastrophes. Whatever the cause (climate change, poverty, disease, overpopulation, war), it's undeniable that communities and individuals are continually facing daunting problems and challenges across the globe. In the first year of this podcast in Episode 11 (Nov 2021), we discussed how everyday people are just trying to survive, the roles and responsibilities of government and public service officials in dealing with crises, and of course, how library & information staff and institutions can provide essential services and resources. It's 3 years later, and in the face of even more severe hurricanes, fires, wars, and more chaos globally, we again focus on this crucial topic. Three years ago, Beth Patin was our guest speaker. She was a leading "crisis informatics" expert due to her work after Hurricane Katrina and her PhD studies. Now, as a tri-host of this podcast, she leads us through an update on this topic--the current status, how we've progressed or declined in our collective ability to deal with crises, and how the library & information field can play an even more active and visible role in preparing for, during, and recovering from these disasters.

Rebekah Cummings is interviewed by Dave Lankes. Rebekah was chosen to run with Gubernatorial candidate, Brian King. He described Rebekah as:“A mom. A public servant. A librarian. A defender against book banning and censorship. Utahns will be well served by Rebekah’s leadership through her advocacy for intellectual freedom and commitment to empowering families.”Rebekah is the Director of Digital Matters and Associate Librarian at the University of Utah Marriott Library. In 2018 – 2019, Rebekah served as the Utah Library Association President, and she currently serves as the Utah State Library Board Chair. Since 2019, Rebekah has championed library issues and funding as Co-Chair of the Utah Library Association Advocacy Committee. In this role, she and her advocacy partners have won multiple awards, including the 2019 American Library Association Gerald Hodges Intellectual Freedom Award, 2021 Utah Library Association Legislative Award for Excellence in Political Affairs and Library Advocacy, and 2023 ACLU Utah Torch of Freedom Award for the Let Utah Read coalition.NOTE: THIS INTERVIEW IS AVAILABLE AS A VIDEO ON THE LIBRARY JOURNAL YouTube Channel - https://youtu.be/kHrNVvyQD_g 

Corrosive AI: Effects On and Expanded Roles Of Libraries and the Information FieldSigh. It’s not enough that our instantly and continually connected information environment has eroded trust everywhere—including in our public institutions. The Internet, World Wide Web, and social media have been super-spreaders for misinformation (unintended misleading or false information) and dis-information (purposeful spreading of lies or deceptive information). But now, there is an even more powerful force at everyone’s fingertips-Artificial Intelligence. AI  now offers a set of multimedia tools and techniques to turbo-charge the creation and communication of false or misleading information. Referred to as “corrosive AI” by our colleague Riley Lankes, AI provides a new level of capability to undermine trust, particularly in government and public institutions, and unfortunately yes, even in libraries.  In this first podcast of our 5th season, and our first season in partnership with Library Journal, we try out some of these new AI tools, focus on the corrosive effects, and conclude with ways that libraries and librarians can help to repair or even avoid the damage.Also - check out our BONUS VIDEO INTERVIEW - Rebekah Cummings is interviewed by Dave Lankes. Rebekah was chosen to run with Gubernatorial candidate, Brian King. He described Rebekah as: “A mom. A public servant. A librarian. A defender against book banning and censorship. Utahns will be well served by Rebekah’s leadership through her advocacy for intellectual freedom and commitment to empowering families.” Rebekah is the Director of Digital Matters and Associate Librarian at the University of Utah Marriott Library. In 2018 – 2019, Rebekah served as the Utah Library Association President, and she currently serves as the Utah State Library Board Chair. NOTE: THIS INTERVIEW IS AVAILABLE AS A VIDEO ON THE LIBRARY JOURNAL YouTube Channel at https://youtu.be/kHrNVvyQD_gFor References & Resources for this episode visit us at https://librarieslead.libraryjournal.com/2024/10/01/episode-34-october-2024-corrosion-and-repair-of-trust-in-public-institutions/ For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us at https://librarieslead.libraryjournal.com/ 

TikTok! Used regularly by over half the US population, why do so many either love or loathe TikTok? Is it simply a fun and terrific platform for creating, sharing, and consuming content? Is it an addictive, mental health hazard destroying America’s youth? Is it a major national security threat of Chinese infiltration? Is it all of the above…and more? We first discussed TikTok two years ago in Episode 15 (Feb 2022): Life, the Universe and Everything Social Media. But now it demands a closer look as use continues to skyrocket, its impact on US culture is undeniable, and federal and state governments seek to control or ban its use. So, hickory dickory dock. Join us as we run up (and down) the TikTok clock.   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-33-may-june-2024-tiktok-is-the-clock-really-ticking-for-tiktok/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/ 

In this episode, we return to one of our favorite topics– the new AI. But rather than focus on the latest “gee whiz” or OMG capabilities, we turn to the societal implications and impact side of the topic. Dave raised this topic wondering if it’s another case of, “this is why we can't have nice things anymore.” Why is it that for world-changing technologies over the past half-century that held great promise for the betterment of humanity (e.g., personal computers, the Internet, the World Wide Web, search, mobile devices, social media) instead wound up adding stress to personal and professional lives, widening economic and social inequality, and became new tools for scams and crime. Is Dave right or is it possible that we can be realistic but optimistic about AI, that is, to be good information people with a necessary critical view - not a tech bro nor a Luddite. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-32-april-2024-optimistically-realistic-or-realistically-optimistic-about-ai For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/ 

What could be less controversial than school libraries? School libraries - dedicated to children and American values. School libraries- keeping school information collections & technology up-to-date and secure. School librarians - seeking to  promoting literacy and ensuring that students gain essential information & technology skills. Mom, apple pie, and school libraries, right? Wrong. School libraries are being challenged across the country with politically-motivated, organized book bans in the thousands along with efforts to demonize libraries and librarians (including the American Library Association). At the same time, we see significant declines in the number of schools that have professional school librarians and libraries. But, school librarians are one of the the only group of educators directly charged with addressing the serious information & technology issues facing children and their parents and teachers; issues like social media use, mis/dis-information, information access & use, AI, and critical information & technology skills. What gives? As Scooby would say, “Ruh roh!!”In this episode we take a look at the current and future situation of school library programs and school librarians. Beth and Mike both come from a school library background, and Dave has been involved with K-12 education for much of his professional career. Listen in as we seek to better understand what’s going on, why, and what can be done about it. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-31-march-2024-ack-school-libraries-under-attack/ For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Information and technology are a ubiquitous part of our lives. We cannot escape. Many of us walk around with multiple devices, receiving hundreds of notifications, emails, alerts, texts each day. Much like the 2022 film Everything Everywhere All at Once  we are all navigating a multiverse of devices and information sources. We used to talk about and experience the world in real life (IRL) through our digital presences. But is it now the opposite? Do we experience our lives digitally more than in the real world? Does real life exist without the digital nowadays?  According to Truelist, in 2023, the average US smartphone user receives 46 app push notifications per day.* Collectively, an estimated 333 billion emails and 34 billion texts are sent and received today the average person is spending 2 hours and 24 minutes on social media while for teens in the US, the average is double that - 4.8 hours.  iExhausted? iOverwhelmed and scared as hell? We are too. So, In this episode we are going to take a deep breath, reflect on the situation and share our own practices and strategies, life hacks if you will, for developing healthier habits around our technology use. And of course, we emphasize how libraries can help too. *NOTE: The sources for any statistics, facts, or quotes offered are listed on the Libraries Lead Resources Website.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-30-february-2024-information-everywhere-all-at-once/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

ContentWarning: This episode includes discussions about mental health, addiction, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, please seek professional help. It is important to prioritize your well-being and the well-being of those around you.In this episode, we get serious about a serious problem: despondency and despair across all age groups – middle age, young adults and seniors too. For example, going against all the statistical norms, people in their middle ages are increasingly dying from suicide, drug overdoses and alcohol related illnesses. First observed in middle aged white men, the trend is now seen across gender and racial boundaries. The one predictive factor? The deaths are rising in those without 4 year college degrees. For older adults, social isolation or loneliness is associated with a 50% increased risk of developing dementia. And among youth, post-pandemic statistics point to a decrease in loneliness, but overall levels of depression have not fallen as much as one would hope. What’s the possible connection to our information-overloaded and increasingly online and technologically-mediated world? And most importantly, what can library and information professionals and institutions do to help?For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-29-jan-2024-deaths-of-despair-isolation-and-despondency/ For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

In recent weeks, Dave's gone down the AI rabbit hole and, in this episode, we’re following him. Besides using AI for creating graphics, Dave’s is using an AI app called Poe to create “answer bots” – AI chats based on one's own content. This differs from ChatGPT and others which are based on large language models of massive amounts of general content from the web. With Poe, Dave used transcripts of this podcast (Libraries Lead) to create a Libraries Lead "bot" - Lib_Leader bot - https://poe.com/Lib_Leader.  In this episode ask Beth to take Lib_Leader for a test drive, look under the hood, and consider the short- and long-term implications of this and other customizable AI tools. Riffing off of the intelligent computer HAL 9000 quote from the film 2001 – A Space Odyssey ("I afraid I can do that, Dave"), what are the implications of computer that might be able to do just about everything, that is, “I’m Afraid I CAN do that, Dave.”For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-28-dec-2023-more-ai-im-afraid-i-can-do-that-dave/  For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

We - Beth, Mike, & Dave - are educators, so naturally we all believe deeply in the value of learning at all stages of life. We advocate for “education” as an answer to many if not most questions, problems, concerns, and issues that people face individually and collectively. But, let’s get more specific about what this really means today and tomorrow specifically in library and information science education, in formal school settings, and even more broadly in society. In this episode we delve into the nature of education as well as the various means to gaining desired knowledge and skills.This episode also includes, in addition to our Main Topic,  our other regular features: Wazzup?AI WatchAwesome Library ThingyEnjoy!For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-27-nov-2023-education-is-the-answer-now-what-was-the-question/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

We’re back and where do we begin? Beth, Dave and Mike return to the podcast microphones after a summer break from recording, but certainly not a break from incredible developments in the library, information, and technology worlds. Headlines include: Not just censor, but actually close libraries! Invasion of the AIs, aka large language models (LLM). Dis-information – the new normal? Teaching – forget social media, smart phones, Zoom, and the pandemic. Is it real or is it ChatGPT? In this episode, Beth, Dave, and Mike push back - but in a positive way. How can libraries and supporters generate more and better responses to censorship and book banning? And how can we prepare communities and individuals for living in this “new AI’ world?For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-26-oct-2023-pitchforks-and-torches-and-so-much-more/ For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Enough of the downer, doom, the sky is falling mentality that seems to pervade our lives and media. Let’s celebrate! Join us as we highlight libraries and librarians and their role in our lives. Libraries are great. Libraries are thriving. Libraries are cool. Beth, Mike, & Dave talk about why we love them and give specific examples of unique and innovative services, programs, and resources, across all types of libraries and communities. We’ll also discuss how they are actively and successfully fighting back against efforts to censor, restrict, or limit libraries and their use.  For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-25-may-2023-celebrating-libraries/ For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

In this podcast episode, Beth, Mike, and Dave dive into the latest advancements in AI, including ChatGPT, Bing, Dall-E, and others. They acknowledge that the new AI technologies are complex and not simply good or bad, black or white. Instead, they explore the nuanced capabilities of these tools and their potential impact on society. The hosts discuss how these AI advancements can be used to improve various industries, such as healthcare and education, while also acknowledging the potential risks and challenges that come with these new technologies.   Note: The above description was written by ChatGPT! Here's the prompt from Mike: “Write a paragraph description of a podcast episode by Beth, Mike, and Dave about the new AI and capabilities including ChatGPT, Bing, Dall-E, and others. They recognize that the new AI is complicated,  not simply good or bad, black or white.”For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-24-april-2023-the-new-aiits-complicated/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

It’s March Madness, and we both readily admit it – we are sports junkies. We are VERY dedicated fans taking our teams’ successes (or lack thereof) way too seriously. But we also enjoy looking at sports through our “information-colored” glasses. Sport has always been an information as well as physical contest, and it’s even more so today. We have Moneyball-type data analytics across sports in team building, strategy, video analysis in training and playing, (for better or worse) and pro and college teams use super powerful information processing tools. This has transformed almost all aspects of player and team development, planning and strategy, real-time decision-making, and the fan experience.  So, listen in as Beth and Mike explore the all things information (e.g., information gathering, processing, analysis, evaluation, planning) in relation to preparing for, playing, and enjoying all kinds of sports.For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-23-march-2023-march-info-madness-sports-information-and-libraries/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

In our last episode, #21 – January 2023, we articulated our concerns about what’s going on in higher education. We lamented the striving for status and money instead of access and affordability for students. We also felt that there’s an over-emphasis among students and families on jobs and financial benefits rather than learning and gaining a well-rounded education. We ended the episode by promising to follow-up in this episode focusing on solutions, no matter how far out there they might be. Join us as we talk about aspirations and approaches for higher education in order to expand access and opportunities so that students can gain knowledge, skills, and perspectives relevant to life today and in the future.For References & Resources for this episode visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-22-feb-2023-higher-education-for-better-not-worse-2/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

The three of us are proud academics. While we come from very different backgrounds, we are all examples of the power of higher education to change lives. Furthermore, each of us has dedicated our lives to “paying it forward” through teaching, mentoring, research, and professional practice. However, things seem different now on campuses. The promise and fulfillment of learning, growth, and opportunity for students seems to be pushed aside by an insatiable institutional, self-serving striving for status and money as well as an over-emphasis among students and families on jobs and financial benefits. We question these priorities and wonder if it’s possible to rededicate and redirect the academy back to more balanced goals for students, society, and the institutions themselves.For References & Resources Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-21-jan-2023-higher-education-please-come-to-your-senses/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Meltdown at Twitter? Advertisers leaving, Apple may delist the Twitter app, many have canceled their Twitter accounts.  What does this mean? Is there something more meaningful, valuable, and humane to replace it -perhaps a trustworthy, digital platform for the exchange of information and ideas moderated for credibility and trust? Should librarians seek to shape or support a Twitter replacement?  What's a reasonable stance for librarians in the face of free speech versus responsible speech? Let’s talk.For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-20-ding-dong-the-twit-is-dead/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 19: WHAT?????February 21st. 2022Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergWhat is going on in this world? Librarians in the crosshairs! Book censorship and actual book burnings! Heavy-handed government control of schools, curriculum, higher education, libraries! Handmaid’s Tale-like nightmare in terms of women’s rights! Climate catastrophes! War in Ukraine. Strife - hatred - violence! WTF?????For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-19-nov-2022-what/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 18: The Censors are Coming! The Censors are Coming!May 2022Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergIt is happening here. Again. There’s a huge increase in efforts to censor what is taught or even discussed in school along with banning, and in some cases even burning books in schools and libraries. In this episode, we delve into the nature of these threats along with ways to counteract them. The same people who profess to champion freedom and rail against cancel culture, wokeness, safe places, and hurt feelings now want to censor and ban books, pass laws against teaching about race or sexuality, and “protect” kids and ourselves from ideas, science, or history that might be upsetting. What is this all about, and what are the implications, particularly for libraries and schools? For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-18-may-2022-the-censors-are-coming-the-censors-are-coming/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 17: Video Sharing & So Much MoreApril 2022Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergYouTube has more than 2 billion active users collectively viewing over 5 billion videos totaling a combined 1 billion hours of video viewing every day!! Tik Tok is the new kid on the block, just 4 years old worldwide, and already with over 1 billion active users watching 167 million videos every minute! These two entities wield tremendous influence across every demographic. Clearly more than benign video sharing platforms, they are mass media publishers, social media exchanges, and content creation streaming services. What’s the scoop? Are they valuable and helpful services or is there a darker side? Let’s find out.For References & Resources Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-17-april-2022-video-sharing-so-much-more/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 16: FACEBOOK: The Good, Bad, and the UglyMarch 2022Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergThis episode continues our conversation about social media. We zero in on the 800 lb gorilla – make that the 1.6 BILLION pound gorilla that dominates social media,  FACEBOOK. That’s 1.6 billion because over 1.6 BILLION people (on average) visit Facebook every day. Listen in as we unravel this information age phenomenon.For References & Resources Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-16-march-2022-facebook-the-good-bad-and-the-ugly/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 15: Life, the Universe and Everything Social Media. February 2022Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergThis is the first of a series of episodes about the phenomenon of social media. Social media dominates and affects almost all aspect of life and society, sometimes purposefully and often not. In the series, we hope to inform as well as identify some recommended good practices, and to discuss how libraries can and are helping people to engage effectively and safely. Here in episode 15 we will take a broad view of social media highlighting some of the nuts and bolts, the “why” of social media, and to begin to discuss the impact and issues. For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-15-feb-2022-life-the-universe-and-everything-social-media/For References & Resources  of All Episodes Visit us at https://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 14: Info Literacy - Now More Than Ever!January 2022Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergInformation literacy relates to every aspect of human existence – individually or in communities. Almost all human activities and endeavors are information-based, especially in our turbocharged, networked, overloaded info world. In this episode, we explore a range of info literacy issues including information skills, relevance, credibility, mis- and dis-information, bias, technology, media, and equity. For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-14-jan-2022-info-literacy-now-more-than-ever/For References & Resources  of all Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 13: Politics R Us?December, 2021Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergAughhh! The po·lit·i·ci·za·tion of everything! We don’t seem to be able to escape increasing polarization and the division into rival groups identified by politics and worldviews as well as the demonization of the other side.  Is this the new normal? Even for libraries and public service? Is everything to be defined or viewed through a political lens? through a political identity?   What is the politicization of everything - its nature and scope - and what are the implications? For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/?page_id=152 For References & Resources  of all Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 12: Truth or Dare: A New Normal in Education and Human Services?Nov 2021Beth Patin, Dave Lankes, & Mike EisenbergStarting this, our second season, we have a huge change to the Libraries Lead podcast. In the last episode (#11) of the first season, Beth Patin, assistant professor at the Syracuse University iSchool joined us. She was fantastic, mind blowing, amazing. The conversation was electric; It sizzled. Beth added so much that it was clear that she needed to be part of every episode. And here she is—a permanent tri-host of the podcast. In this episode, we question the reality and nature of an emerging new normal in education on all levels as well as in other human services workplaces such as healthcare, medicine, and libraries.For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-12-nov-2021-truth-or-dare-a-new-normal-in-education-and-human-services/For References & Resources  of all Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 11: Emergency! Being Prepared in the New Normal. October 1, 2021Dave Lankes & Mike Eisenberg with Beth PatinUnfortunately, the dire future predictions of crises due to environment and climate change, disease, poverty, and social justice are today’s realities. Across the globe, communities, individuals, and governments are trying to cope with current disasters while putting some plans and infrastructure in place for future catastrophic situations.This new normal requires communities, individuals, and governments to cope right now while also looking ahead to plan for and create the necessary infrastructure and processes (conceptually and physically) to deal with future emergency situations. Dave and Mike have discussed some of this previously, particularly the existing and potential roles of libraries, librarians, and other information services providers. But it’s time to bring in a true expert. Beth Hereford Patin is an Assistant Professor at the Syracuse University Information School (iSchool). Beth is a leading expert in crisis informatics. She was instrumental in rebuilding in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina and studies community resilience and libraries in the United States during disasters.Listen in to a frank and sometimes scary conversation relevant to everyday people just trying to get by, government and public service officials responsible for dealing with crises, and of course, library & information staff and institutions who provide essential in services and resources.For References & Resources  Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/episode-11-oct-2021-emergency-being-prepared-in-the-new-normal/For References & Resources  of all Episodes Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

Episode 10: Data to the Rescue? Sept 2021  Dave Lankes & Mike Eisenberg We agree on something “data to protect you" is an oxymoron. Data can be dangerous–particularly in the hands of corporations, governments, hackers, scammers, & even well-intentioned non-profits, public service providers, and even libraries and librarians. Public libraries monitor patrons on social media to market services to better “meet needs.” School libraries create student Google profiles and capture user data. Academic libraries seek to address mental health issues identified through analysis of user data. We understand the well-meaning intentions to help. But do we really want anyone to be able to collect and aggregate all this data about anyone & everyone? To make sense of the whole “data” thing, we are joined by Megan Oakleaf, Associate Professor, Syracuse University iSchool. Megan researches & teaches library value/impact, outcomes assessment, learning analytics, evidence-based decision making, information literacy instruction, and information services.  She is also Director of Online Engagement. Learn with us about data use and misuse. For References & Resources  Visit us at https://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/?page_id=174 For References & Resources  of all Episoeds Visit us athttps://1n2.b2c.myftpupload.com/

June 2, 2021Dave Lankes & Mike EisenbergAre we going back to offices and city living or will a new normal emerge? Judging from the articles and posts, it’s not clear at all. That means it’s likely to be a combination of both depending on contexts of nature of activity (e.g., business), geography, and the economics (jobs, commerce, supply chain). With uncertainty prevailing, what should libraries be thinking about and planning for? As an added bonus, our production manager, Yoni Yemini, from ACE Chicago Events joins us to share his thoughts on how things are changing for his business. In Wazzup, Dave talks about the challenges to libraries, communities, and library & info science education due to the continually changing Covid situation. Mike points out the information aspects of vaccination verification with examples from the EU and New York State.  Dave’s Awesome Library Thingy was the Next Library Festival that was held on June 3rd, 2021, and Mike highlighted a NY Times article about museums post-covid, particularly the opportunities for new forms of programming and partnering.References & Resources WazzupStevis-Gridneff, Matina. (June 1, 2021). "Seven European countries begin issuing a digital Covid certificate for travel." New York Times. online. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/01/world/europe-covid-certificate-travel.html Otterman, Sharon (June 1, 2021). "Will the Excelsior Pass, New York’s Vaccine Passport, Catch On?" New York Times online: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/01/nyregion/new-york-vaccine-passport.html. Main Topic: Back to the FutureMahtani, Melissa (May 30, 2021). “Don't just go back to 'normal.' Post-pandemic life can be much better than that.” CNN Health. https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/30/health/better-than-normal-wellness/index.html.Tracy Moore, Tracy. (May 21, 2021) “I don’t want to go back to the office and I’m not alone.” Washington Post online. https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/05/21/i-dont-want-go-back-office-im-not-alone/.Dubner, Stephen J. (May 12, 2021). “The Future of New York City Is in Question. Could Andrew Yang Be the Answer?” Freakonomics podcast (Ep. 462). https://freakonomics.com/podcast/yang-mayor/   Awesome Library Thingy‘Next’ Library Festival (June 3, 2021) http://www.nextlibrary.net/page/next-library-festival-2021 Farago, Jason (May 21, 2021). "10 Ways for Museums to Survive and Thrive in a Post-Covid World." New York Times, updated online May 24, 2021 https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/21/arts/pandemic-museums-ideas.html.  CreditsAudio, Production, and Streaming Services: Yoni Yemini, ACE Chicago Events

May 26, 2021 Dave Lankes & Mike Eisenberg In the last episode, Mike ranted about his frustrations and hours spent in trying to reach a human being for assistance with airline reservations, prescriptions, and insurance. In this episode, we dive deeper into the topic of help and information services of all kinds– human, mediated (telephone, digital), online. What’s going on with consumer help and what’s the status of Q&A, Ask a Librarian, and reference services in library land?In Wazzup, Dave describes the master class in the new librarianship he’s part of with the National Library School of France, and Mike shares concerns stemming from a disturbing text from a friend related to vaccines loaded with mis- and dis-information that raised all kinds of issues about the credibility of information and the undermining of quality of information. Dave’s Awesome Library Thingy spotlights the Toronto Public Library and Pam Ryan, Director, Service Development & Innovation, and their cutting-edge information literacy classes in machine learning, algorithms, public data, AI, and more.References & Resources École Nationale Supérieure des Sciences de l’Information et des Bibliothèques: the national library school of France., https://www.enssib.fr/ Angela Craig interview (May 12, 2021), Libraries Lead in the New Normal, Podcast Episode 7. https://www.acechicagoevents.com/libraries-lead-episode-7 Ewen, Lara (May 3, 2021). “Healthy Distance, Telemedicine brings house calls to local libraries,” American Libraries. p. 14. online: https://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2021/05/03/healthy-distance-libraries-telemedicine/ Radford, M., Costello, L., & Montague, K. (2021). Surging virtual reference services: COVID-19 a game-changer. College & Research Libraries News, 82(3), 106. doi: https://doi.org/10.5860/crln.82.3.106   Toronto Public Library https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/ Digital Innovation Series, Toronto Public Library https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/search.jsp?N=37867+4288098632 CreditsAudio, Production, and Streaming Services: Yoni Yemini, ACE Chicago Events