Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping the information landscape, influencing how users discover, evaluate, and engage with information. For Library and Information Science (LIS) programs, this raises important questions about how graduates are being prepared to meet the changing demands of information seekers. While professional organizations and international agencies have proposed frameworks for AI competencies, little research has been done to examine how these align with the competencies currently emphasized in LIS curricula. This paper explores the intersection of AI competency frameworks and LIS program learning outcomes as reflected in publicly available course catalogs and program websites. The study draws upon AI literacy and competency models developed by organizations such as the American Library Association (ALA) and UNESCO, as well as existing scholarly frameworks. These competencies are mapped against learning outcomes and curricular emphases from selected LIS programs, with particular attention to skills related to information retrieval, data ethics, information literacy, and library systems. Preliminary analysis suggests that LIS programs frequently emphasize ethical awareness, critical thinking, and information evaluation—skills highly relevant to AI contexts—yet make limited explicit reference to AI-specific competencies. This creates a potential gap between emerging professional expectations and formal LIS education. By synthesizing frameworks and curricular materials, this presentation provides LIS educators with a practical overview of where AI competencies are already present, where gaps exist, and how programs might integrate AI literacies without major curricular restructuring. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about adapting LIS education to integrate new technologies and address future needs.
Presenters
Julie La Dell ThomasAssistant Teaching Professor, Graduate School of Library & Information Studies, University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Considering Digital Pedagogies
KEYWORDS
AI COMPETENCIES, AI LITERACY, LIS EDUCATION, LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
