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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART:20251210T173000Z
DTEND:20251210T183000Z
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SUMMARY:AI in Libraries: Getting Prepared for 2026 (PCI Webinar)
DESCRIPTION:\n\nThe Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce 
 that we have contracted with PCI Webinars to provide our members with 
 access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who 
 register through our calendar. Please do not register directly with PCI. 
 Members who register directly with PCI are responsible for paying their 
 registration fee. \n\nPlease help us keep MLS sponsored training free for 
 all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar\, please cancel 
 your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation 
 email\, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to 
 cancel. \n\nBecause we are working with an outside vendor\, it is important 
 that you cancel your registration in the event that you are unable to 
 attend the live webinar.  A recording of the webinar will be available on 
 the PCI Webinars Niche Academy website about a week after the live webinar. 
  If you have any issues registering or signing into the PCI Webinars Niche 
 Academy website\, please let us know.  Please do not contact PCI Webinars 
 or Niche Academy directly about their live webinars or webinar 
 recordings.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDescription\n\nArtificial intelligence 
 isn’t just a tech trend — it’s becoming a powerful partner in how 
 libraries connect people\, ideas\, and information. From smarter search 
 results and on-the-fly translations to creative tools that spark learning 
 and storytelling\, AI is opening exciting new possibilities for library 
 services.\n\nAs 2026 approaches\, the pace of change is picking up. 
 Generative AI\, retrieval-augmented search\, and locally hosted models are 
 giving libraries fresh ways to enhance discovery\, improve efficiency\, and 
 support patrons in entirely new ways — but they also bring big questions 
 about privacy\, ethics\, and readiness.\n\n\n\n\n\nLearning Outcomes\n\nIn 
 this lively\, skills-focused session\, we’ll look at what’s next for AI 
 in libraries and how to get ready for it. You’ll leave with a toolkit of 
 emerging tools worth exploring\, and a clear picture of the trends shaping 
 how libraries will lead — not just adapt — in the years 
 ahead.\n\n\n\n\n\nPresenter\n\nKira Smith has been a dedicated Virtual 
 Reference Specialist with Florida’s Ask A Librarian service for over 15 
 years. A recipient of multiple Exemplary Reference Awards\, Kira is 
 passionate about guiding people to the information they need. In addition 
 to her work in virtual reference\, she freelances as a research consultant 
 for journalists\, providing expert insights and fact-finding services. Kira 
 also regularly hosts webinars\, sharing her knowledge and experience in the 
 fields of online reference and information literacy.\n\nHer diverse 
 background includes experience as an elementary school teacher and a 
 certified childbirth educator\, adding depth to her understanding of 
 teaching and communication. With a love for technology\, education\, and 
 travel\, Kira continually seeks innovative ways to enhance learning 
 experiences and connect with people around the world.\n\n\n\n 
 \n\nREGISTER\n\n\n\nJoin Meeting: 
 https://calendar.masslibsystem.org/calendar/events?cid=6935&t=d&d=0000-00-00&cal=6935&ct=74806&inc=0
LOCATION:Webinar
ORGANIZER;CN="Learning Services":MAILTO:learn@masslibsystem.org
CATEGORIES:Vendor Webinar - ALA
CONTACT;CN="Learning Services":MAILTO:learn@masslibsystem.org
STATUS:CONFIRMED
UID:LibCal-15673554
URL:https://calendar.masslibsystem.org/event/15673554
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