Becoming a leader in AI literacy instruction by not reinventing the wheel

Abstract

Libraries are at a critical moment to lead in AI literacy, but success doesn't demand starting from scratch. By building on familiar frameworks for information literacy, outreach, and instructional design, libraries can quickly and effectively meet the challenges of generative AI. This article showcases how one research-intensive university library leveraged existing strengths—through AI-focused guides, workshops, grants, and cross-campus partnerships—to embed AI literacy across its academic community. Rather than reinventing the wheel, the library expanded proven methods to support ethical, critical, and informed engagement with AI technologies. This case study offers a practical, scalable model for any library seeking to empower users and stake a leadership role in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.