Critical Knowledge and Skills for Academic Librarians in the Age of Human‐Centered Artificial Intelligence

ABSTRACT Close collaboration between Library and Information Studies (LIS) programs and academic libraries is essential in the age of human‐centered artificial intelligence (AI) to prepare future academic librarians with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed for modern information services. This panel provides an opportunity for information science educators, researchers, and students to engage with leaders from three U.S. academic libraries. Together, we will explore key challenges currently facing academic libraries and discuss strategies for developing well‐prepared LIS graduates who are equipped to meet these evolving demands. Specifically, this panel will discuss the most pressing challenges facing LIS research and academic libraries in the era of human‐centered AI, important research topics LIS research and academic libraries should prioritize, characteristics of the next generation of academic librarians, and strategies that strengthen collaboration between academic libraries and LIS programs.