May 27, 1 p.m., presented by Kira Smith
Children’s librarians are on the front lines of a rapidly shifting landscape, as generative AI enters children’s publishing and AI-generated books increasingly appear on Amazon, self-publishing platforms, and from library vendors. These titles can be difficult to identify, often mimicking traditional authorship, illustration styles, and series branding while lacking transparency about their creation.
This webinar will equip librarians and selectors with practical tools to critically evaluate children’s books for signs of AI generation. Participants will explore real-world examples, discuss ethical and collection development implications, and learn strategies for making informed, defensible decisions that support quality, authenticity, and trust in children’s literature collections.
As a result of this program, attendees will learn how to:
- Identify four common indicators of AI-generated children’s books in print and digital collections.
- Distinguish between acceptable AI-assisted creation and fully AI-generated content when reviewing titles for purchase or retention.
- Make informed, defensible collection decisions using professional standards.
Who will benefit from this program:
- Children’s and Youth Services Librarians
- Collection Development Librarians
- School Librarians and Media Specialists
- Library Administrators developing AI policy
Online Registration
NOTE: Live PCI Webinar registrations are for current Arkansas library employees only
Kira Smith – Biography
Kira Smith has been a Virtual Reference Specialist with Florida’s Ask A Librarian service for over 16 years and is a recipient of multiple Exemplary Reference Awards. In addition to her work in virtual reference, Kira freelances as a research consultant for journalists, providing fact-finding, source verification, and background research. She also regularly designs and presents professional development webinars for librarians, focusing on online reference, information literacy, and emerging issues affecting library practice.
Kira’s professional background includes experience as an elementary school teacher and a certified childbirth educator. She is particularly interested in how new technologies — including generative AI — affect information quality, trust, and decision-making in library collections.
The views expressed in webinars provided by PCI do not necessarily reflect the views or official policies of the State of Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Education, or the Arkansas State Library.