Information Strategies for Libraries in the Age of AI
Librarians must actively adapt to an information landscape increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence (AI), search engine optimization (SEO), and algorithm-driven content.
During the PLA 2026 session, *”Trust & Verify: Information Accuracy in the Age of SEO, AI, and Algorithms,”* Nathaniel Burnard, Systems Services Manager at Allen County Public Library, offered a practical and timely examination of how these forces influence the way we, and our patrons, discover and evaluate information. As a 2026 PLA scholarship recipient, I had the opportunity to attend Burnard’s insightful presentation in Minneapolis.
Burnard began by explaining the differences between misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation (MDM). While these terms are often used interchangeably, they differ based on the intent behind the creation or sharing of information. Misinformation is false or inaccurate information shared without intent to deceive. Disinformation is deliberately false information created to manipulate, mislead, or cause harm. Malinformation contains truthful information that is presented in a misleading, sensationalized, or harmful way.
To help identify MDM, Burnard encouraged attendees to ask critical questions such as, “Does this content provoke a strong emotional response?” and “Does it use small pieces of valid information that have been exaggerated or distorted?” He also emphasized the importance of avoiding engagement with misleading content. Rather than liking, commenting on, or sharing questionable posts, users should block and report them when appropriate.
One of the most relatable portions of the session focused on the limitations of AI. Burnard discussed how AI models can be trained on outdated information and are susceptible to “hallucinations,” instances in which AI systems generate convincing but entirely false information.
His comments reminded me of a recent interaction with a patron who requested a book I could not locate in any catalog or database. After several follow-up questions, she revealed that the title had come from a list generated by ChatGPT. It quickly became apparent that the book did not exist. The experience illustrated Burnard’s point perfectly: while AI can improve access to information and support users who struggle with traditional search strategies, it can also introduce fabricated information into the research process.
Burnard also addressed content farming, the practice of rapidly producing content, often with the assistance of AI, to maximize clicks and advertising revenue. Because this content is designed to perform well in search engines, it frequently prioritizes engagement over accuracy. This creates fertile ground for the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation. As a result, patrons may arrive at libraries with questions based on inaccurate or misleading sources, and librarians must be prepared to respond thoughtfully and without judgment.
To help verify information, Burnard recommended a variety of practical strategies, including consulting fact-checking organizations, reviewing a source’s contact information, conducting reverse image searches, and carefully examining domain names. These techniques can help librarians and patrons evaluate the credibility of online content and identify potential red flags.
Burnard concluded with actionable recommendations for protecting libraries and their communities in an increasingly complex information environment. He encouraged libraries to actively manage their online presence by setting up monitoring and alert services, using SEO strategies to ensure official library information appears prominently in search results, and responding to misinformation with transparent, factual communication through official channels.
In a time of rapid technological change, there is both excitement and uncertainty surrounding AI. Burnard’s presentation struck a thoughtful balance between recognizing its potential benefits and acknowledging its limitations. As librarians, our role extends beyond helping people find information. We help them evaluate, interpret, and verify it. By strengthening our information literacy skills and remaining vigilant about emerging technologies, we can ensure that libraries continue to serve as trusted sources of knowledge in their communities.
Tags: pla2026, pla2026scholarship
