Purdue university libraries and school of information studies will develop online AI training modules for academic librarians

Purdue University Libraries and School of Information Studies received a $148,945 Project Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (CFDA 45.313), effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027. The project will develop a sustainable, open-access suite of 12 online artificial intelligence (AI) training modules specifically designed for academic librarians. These modules will convert existing, well-curated data science workshops into librarian-oriented online learning resources that comprehensively cover the entire AI project lifecycle, including project planning, data preparation, model training, and evaluation. The instructional design will accommodate diverse technical skill levels by offering both coding and no-code options for module completion.

The project will be guided by a six-member advisory board of library and AI experts who will support pilot testing, gather feedback, and facilitate platform refinement. Key deliverables include the 12 online learning modules featuring librarian-oriented AI prototypes, as well as publications and reports designed to disseminate findings across the library profession. Additionally, the project will establish a framework for future expansion to the broader galleries, libraries, archives, and museums sector, ensuring long-term impact and sustainability beyond the initial two-year performance period.

Over two years, purdue libraries will convert well-curated data science workshops into librarian-oriented online learning modules, encompassing the entire AI project lifecycle. These modules will focus on key areas such as project planning, data preparation, model training, and evaluation, with coding and no-code options to support wide-ranging technical skill levels. The project will collaborate with a six-member advisory board of library and AI experts to guide the project, support pilot tests, gather feedback, and refine the platform. Key deliverables will include a sustainable, open-access set of 12 online learning modules featuring librarian-oriented AI prototypes, as well as publications and reports to disseminate findings and insights. The project will also establish a framework for future expansion to the broader galleries, libraries, archives, and museums sector, promoting long-term impact and sustainability.