Plain-language, interactive illustrations about how AI really works — written for librarians, no math degree required.
We explain the mechanisms honestly — and we say so plainly whenever something is opinion rather than fact, so you can make your own journey with these tools.
How a large language model actually works — from words to numbers to meaning to action. Real science, made plain: neither magic nor mere autocorrect.
Explore the moduleThe craft of asking AI good questions — drawing on what librarians already know about reference, search, and source evaluation. Skills you already have, mapped onto a tool that's new.
Explore the moduleWays of picturing what AI is — and isn't. More personal and reflective: where this turns to opinion, we'll say so.
Explore the moduleA collection of prompting techniques, run books, habits of practice, and other moves that have given good results.
An honest look at the AI and productivity tools behind this site — what each one is, what it costs, and why I reach for it. Includes a build-your-own-stack cost calculator.
Explore the moduleWhy I won't pretend the concerns aren't real — the honest case, a reading list to form your own view, and where I personally landed. If your compass points away from AI, I honor that.
Read the noteShare your thoughts and feelings about AI — and let me know if we should build a community around AI in libraries.
Send a note