NCW Libraries to host AI Workshops in Wenatchee, Winthrop and Leavenworth

WENATCHEE — NCW Libraries will offer three free workshops in October aimed at helping residents understand artificial intelligence and make decisions about whether and how to use the technology.

The workshops, titled “Avoiding AI: Breaking Up With Big Tech,” will be held Oct. 8 at the Wenatchee Public Library, Oct. 17 at the Winthrop Public Library and Oct. 22 at the Leavenworth Public Library. Registration is required.

The Wenatchee workshop is scheduled from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8. The Winthrop session will run from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 17, while the Leavenworth workshop is scheduled from 10 to 11 a.m. Oct. 22.

According to NCW Libraries, the workshops will introduce participants to artificial intelligence, including where the technology appears in everyday life and potential uses. The sessions will also address considerations surrounding privacy, accuracy, copyright and environmental impacts, as well as questions about how AI could affect learning, thinking and communication.

AI is increasingly incorporated into commonly used technology, including search engines, smartphones and workplace software. NCW Libraries said the workshops are intended to provide information and resources for people with varying levels of interest in or concern about the technology.

Registration is available through the NCW Libraries online events calendar at https://ncwlibraries.libcal.com/calendar.

NCW Libraries serves Chelan, Douglas, Ferry, Grant and Okanogan counties through 30 community libraries, a bookmobile, the Mail Order Library and digital collections.