Dr. Sandra Hirsh is associate dean for academics in the College of Information, Data and Society at San José State University, where she also serves as special advisor to the provost on AI curricular initiatives. Featured in Chapter 5, “Literacy Reborn,” of The AI Toolkit for Librarians, Sandra brings a wide-ranging perspective shaped by her work in academia, Silicon Valley, library leadership, and global conversations about the future of information.

This conversation explores how AI is reshaping literacy, authorship, information use, and the role of libraries in ethical decision-making. Sandra discusses why librarians need to experiment with AI, advocate for their place in important conversations, and work collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and community stakeholders. She also explains why strategic planning matters in a fast-changing world, helping libraries align limited resources, communicate priorities, and move forward with purpose.