AI Tools for School Libraries

After you attend this course, you’ll be able to:

• Streamline library operations and collection development using AI tools to support cataloging, inventory, transcription, translation, and data-informed curation of diverse and inclusive materials.
  


• Use AI to enhance communication, outreach, and readers’ advisory by creating personalized, accessible, and engaging content—including promotional materials, grant drafts, and advocacy resources.
  


• Design and deliver instruction, programming, and research support with AI tools that foster inquiry, information literacy, and student engagement in both physical and virtual library spaces.
  


• Model ethical, equitable, and transparent AI use by addressing issues like algorithmic bias, misinformation, intellectual property, and data privacy in school settings.
  


• Lead future-ready initiatives by applying AI tools for library impact reporting, visualizing data, supporting policy development, and facilitating professional learning within school communities.
  

This course consists of 4 on-demand modules:

Module 1: Automate & Organize — Streamlining Library Operations with AI

This module focuses on using AI to eliminate routine bottlenecks and streamline daily library operations. Participants will explore tools that support cataloging, inventory, transcription, translation, and 24/7 FAQ coverage. We'll also examine how AI can assist with collection development by analyzing usage patterns and suggesting diverse, high-interest titles to fill gaps.

Module 2: Promote & Connect — Amplifying Your Library’s Voice with AI

From book displays to advocacy campaigns, this module helps librarians use AI to strengthen their voice and visibility. Participants will learn to create compelling promotional materials, grant proposal drafts, and outreach resources tailored for multilingual and diverse audiences. You’ll also use AI to craft personalized book recommendations and engaging newsletters.

Module 3: Teach & Program — Co-Creating Instruction and Engagement with AI

Librarians are educators—and AI can serve as a powerful planning partner. This module covers how to design lessons, interactive programs, makerspace activities, and AI-supported research experiences that promote inquiry and engagement. You’ll also learn how to guide students in using AI ethically and responsibly in their own academic work.

Module 4: Lead & Evaluate — Ethical AI Use and Future-Ready Librarianship

This final module prepares librarians to lead AI integration with clarity and confidence. Participants will examine data privacy, algorithmic bias, and policy development. They will also learn how to use AI to support impact reporting and advocacy. The focus is on positioning librarians as ethical, future-ready leaders in their schools and districts.

Elissa Malespina, B.C.A.S.E.,
Teacher Librarian in New Jersey and Author of The AI School Librarians Newsletter on Substack

Elissa Malespina is an award-winning school librarian, educational consultant, former school board member, and author who specializes in helping educators and librarians integrate AI into teaching and learning. She is the author of AI in the Library: Strategies, Tools and Ethics for Today's Schools and writes The AI School Librarians Newsletter, a Substack publication focused on practical AI tools, ethical guidance, and instructional strategies.

Outside of her work, she's a proud mom, wife, and a fierce advocate for intellectual freedom and educational equity.

Who should take this course

This course is designed for K-12 school librarians with all levels of AI knowledge.

This will be a self-paced, asynchronous online course.

Expected time commitment

This course includes 4 modules, each designed to take approximately 4 hours to complete. You can move through the content at your own pace and on your own schedule. You'll earn 16 hours of PD credit and a School Library Journal certificate of completion.

On-demand access

You’ll have access to all course materials for 6 months from your enrollment date or from the official course launch date, whichever is later.

Certificate of completion

Complete the course and earn 16 professional development credit hours. We provide a certificate that is emailed to you. 

If you complete all 3 courses in the AI Literacy in Schools series,you will earn your AI Literacy in Schools certification fromSchool Library Journal.

Support

For support with online courses, please contact course-support@libraryjournal.com.

Discounted rates are available for a limited time only. Secure your tickets now to lock in the best price.

Group Rates

We offer discounts for groups of 3 or more.

For larger groups of 15 or more, we offer the option to apply group rates across multiple courses to receive significant discounts. For more information, select “Bulk Course Credits Packages” in the form below.

Request Discounted Group Pricing

For support with group purchases, please contact groupsales@libraryjournal.com.