OSU Librarians teaching AI series at the Stillwater Public Library

February 18, 2026

Librarians from OSU Libraries are joining forces with the Stillwater Public Library to offer a series of four free classes covering various aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) this spring. Classes cover the background and history of AI, how AI works, ethics and safety issues and how to use specific tools.

According to a recent report from the Pew Research Center, 50% of Americans are more concerned than excited about the increased use of AI in daily life, up 37% from its last survey in 2021.

Emily States, adult services librarian, thinks some of the concerns come from how quickly AI has integrated into people’s daily lives.

“It seems like AI is constantly in the news,” States said. “Whether we’re hearing about how it is going to impact the job market, AI-generated stories and images circulating on social media or a cool new tool – it’s suddenly everywhere.”

For years, the public library has offered free computer classes, but this is the first time AI topics have been addressed.

“We hope that by giving people more information about the topic, we can help address some of their concerns,” States said. “Instructors will demonstrate how to stay safe when using AI and how to use some practical tools that may make their lives and work easier.”

All the classes are scheduled on Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. The full schedule and descriptions of the sessions are provided below:

Feb. 17 – “Starting the Conversation: Essential Insights for Working with Generative AI” – A class designed for anyone new to AI that will explore why AI is an “arrival technology,” like electricity or the printing press, and how it is reshaping people’s lives and work, whether they use it or not. Learn to think of AI like a conversation partner rather than a search engine.
March 3 – “From Science Fiction to Reality: How Generative AI Actually Works (and Doesn’t!) – Artificial intelligence seems new, but it has roots that go back decades. Trace the evolution of AI and learn how tools like ChatGPT work. This session will explain how these systems work in simple terms that anyone can understand.
April 28 – “The Human Side of AI: Ethics, Environment and Online Safety” – Explore the impact AI has on individuals’ daily lives and learn simple privacy tips for protecting personal and health information when using AI tools. Discover how to navigate AI to align with values and digital well-being.
May 5 – “AI in Action: A Hands-On Look at Popular Tools” – In the final session, attendees will see AI in action. See how ChatGPT can help with everyday tasks like writing emails, planning trips or doing research.

States is grateful to have OSU librarians available to provide their expertise to the public.

“They already have so much experience guiding students through the complexities of AI,” States said. “It’s wonderful that they’re sharing their knowledge with the community.”

Space is limited, and registration is requested. Sign up and learn about other upcoming tech classes at stillwaterok.gov/LibraryDigitalLit. Anyone interested in attending can also register by stopping by the Help Desk or calling (405) 372-3633 x8106.

URL: https://library-dep.okstate.edu/news/latest-news/osu-librarians-teaching-ai-series-at-the-stillwater-public-library

Last Updated: 18 February 2026