In this post, we share key findings from our Spring 2026 survey of public library workers about their experiences with and perspectives on the need for and usefulness of AI policies in public libraries. The findings show a low rate of AI policy adoption despite high demand for one, specific areas of policy needs, and underlying tensions related to AI adoption in public libraries. The findings are based on responses from a total of 327 participants. We removed survey responses that did not meet Qualtrics quality filters (e.g., completeness, cache checks, and bot detection) for quality purposes. Although this sample cannot capture the perspectives of all public library workers, it provides a starting point to hear directly from them about their concerns, areas of need, and preferences for AI policy guidelines and resources.
Public Libraries
Public Libraries
Things not to do at the library – Local news, weather and sports from Fergus Falls, Minnesota
Don’t blast your conversation on speakerphone. It’s loud and disruptive. We don’t really want to listen to one side of your phone conversation, let alone both sides. Don’t be that person who talks on speakerphone in public (libraries).
A new partnership is helping Indiana librarians meet mental health needs • Indiana Capital Chronicle
However, most libraries are not prepared for what comes through their doors. Library staff report witnessing alcohol use and injection drug use in their buildings, situations far outside the scope of what library training typically covers. Recognizing this gap, The MolinaCares Accord, in collaboration with Molina Healthcare of Indiana, awarded a $50,000 grant to Mental Health America of Indiana to develop mental health training for library staff through the Stanley W. DeKemper Training Institute. The goal is straightforward: give librarians the practical tools to recognize warning signs, de-escalate tense situations, and connect people to appropriate care.
Boulder’s library district is cutting 20% of its staff. How did it get here?
Less than four years after voters created the library district with expectations of more stable funding, declining property tax revenue and rising costs have forced a dramatic reversal. “This feels like an about-face from where we were when we became a district,” Levine said. “From there to here in almost exactly two years is a pretty rough change for staff.”
Milwaukee mayor backtracks on library director nomination over accreditation issue – WTMJ
Just over a week after announcing the nomination of Jean Darnell to be the newest director of the Milwaukee Public Library, Mayor Cavalier Johnson is rescinding the nomination after discovering that her degree does not meet accreditation requirements listed in the job description.
Arizona couple arrested after stealing and selling over $6,000 in library books: Police – ABC News
A couple from Mesa, Arizona, was arrested for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of library books and reselling some of them to a local bookstore, according to police.
E-books among budget challenges facing Pittsburgh libraries | 90.5 WESA
“We want you to read and engage what you want and how you want,” Medlar said.
ode to libraries (the book ones)
Not just for working. Use it for thinking, for reconnecting, writing or creating. The library is a sanctuary where your mind slows down, even though the world outside keeps running. Maybe you’ve been postponing to think, to reflect, to spend time by yourself, like I did before I discovered my local library. You’ll find some kind of joy and productivity in there. We don’t have so many pure-good organizations in our world. We should appreciate them while we still have them.
Baltimore County rolls out tech-oriented mobile library
Baltimore County recently rolled out a tech-oriented mobile library with video games and DVDs in an effort to reach underserved communities.
The $723,000 bus, which was largely funded by philanthropic donations, is meant to mimic the offerings of the system’s 19 branches and draw in the county residents who do not have a library card.
Toronto Public Library apologizes after lost child denied help
Toronto Public Library apologizes after lost child denied help
“This is simply not okay, and it doesn%u2019t align with our commitment to serving all community members, especially children, with care and compassion”
Recent Comments