Librarians Are Helping the Public Ditch AI w/ Hannah Cyrus & Alison Macrina
Summary
Host Paris Marks interviews Hannah Cyrus and Alison Macrina about the evolving role of librarians in the age of generative AI. They discuss how libraries provide critical digital literacy training, help patrons navigate privacy concerns, and counter misinformation. The conversation also highlights the Library Freedom Project’s efforts to support workers against corporate surveillance and the urgent need for robust public funding.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Libraries as social support and digital literacy
Guest introductions: Hannah Cyrus and Alison Macrina
Library Freedom Project: Mission and history
Rising public interest in digital privacy and de-googling
Patron-driven curriculum and threat modeling
Sponsor segment: ProtonMail
Librarians as trusted information navigators
Impact of generative AI on libraries and job security
Libraries filling gaps in defunded social services
The crisis of e-book licensing and publisher consolidation
Why human librarians cannot be replaced by AI
Reclaiming the term 'Luddite' for critical tech engagement
How to support local libraries and Library Freedom Project
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