Last week, Aphra Kerr and D. Rahiman delivered a workshop titled “The Role of Libraries in a World of AI and Misinformation” to 40 librarians at Waterford City Hall. The session used materials developed through the AlgoWatch project, adapted for the Irish context.

Participants raised concerns about the impact of AI on authors, the role of libraries in supporting students with schoolwork, and the need to improve public literacy. The discussion highlighted the increasing relevance of digital and media literacy in library work.

These themes are part of the Skills for Life programme and the current Public Library Strategy in Ireland, which are active in all 30 local authority library services and funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.