Current approaches to information literacy and pedagogy are now insufficient given recent developments in AI. We have assumed relatively stable information ecosystems where authority could traced and creation processes understood—assumptions that AI-generated content undermines. Drawing from Dewey's pragmatism, this talk presents "AI Pragmatism" as a theoretical orientation for information professionals that values practical experimentation, democratic participation, and continuous adaptation (over comprehensive frameworks). Academic librarians are uniquely positioned to lead human-centered AI development on campus by leveraging our strengths in professional ethics, community engagement, and navigating dynamic information environments.
Michael Flierl is the Student Learning Librarian at the Ohio State University. He was recently named OSU’s first AI Faculty Fellow. His scholarship and practice focuses on integrating AI literacy skills into information literacy instruction and aligning AI with librarians’ professional values.
