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Custom AI Models and LibraryRobot.org

“Custom AI Models and LibraryRobot.org” is a session in BCLA’s AI Exploration Series, presented by Reed Hepler (Digital Initiatives Librarian).

Event Description

Custom AI models* (like Custom GPTs from OpenAI) are fast becoming one of the most important and productive tools for those looking to harness the power of Large Language Models (LLMs) in practical, pragmatic, and applicable ways. We are all being inundated with promotional and marketing messages telling us all of the great things that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can do for us. A lot of those promises are significantly exaggerated as companies are vying for attention in the rush to profit from AI. We’re also constantly being offered articles or downloads of the “100 best prompts” to use to be productive and successful with AI. Learning how to effectively prompt (or give instructions) to the LLMs (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, or Perplexity) is a relatively good thing, but it’s not necessarily the best use of time for the results needed in order to have AI actually impact productivity.

However, understanding and learning how to build a Custom AI Model, especially using the CustomGPT framework from OpenAI, is something that you should learn and that will have very specific and productive outcomes.

Join us for this hands-on, in-depth workshop to learn the ins and outs of Custom AI Models with a focus on LibraryRobot.org, to streamline work processes, enhance data analysis, improve communication, or manage projects more effectively. By the end of this workshop, you will not only understand the foundational principles of AI tool creation, but you will also leave with at least one custom model that enhances your productivity while upholding the values of transparency and ethical responsibility.

*Custom AI Models–the most prominent being OpenAI’s Custom GPTs–are specialized versions of general LLM systems tailored to meet specific needs or tasks. Imagine having a chatbot that not only understands general information but is also fine-tuned to grasp the nuances of a particular project, topic, industry, or even a company’s internal processes. You program these custom models with specific instructions on the output you are expecting and can give them specific data, which can include anything from product manuals to legal documents, allowing them to provide more accurate, relevant, and context-aware responses. This makes them incredibly powerful tools for businesses, educators, or anyone who needs an AI that can act as a knowledgeable expert in a particular area, offering a personalized and efficient solution for complex tasks.

 

When/Where: Thursday, January 9th, 2025, at 11am-12:30pm (PST) on Zoom (note: this session will be recorded)

Who should attend: Any library worker curious about custom AI models and tools like LibraryRobot.org

Cost: We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, which enabled us to offer this event free of charge.

Register Today!

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

  • Guidelines for Creating Specific Custom LLM Tools
  • Creating GPT Models
  • Providing and Structuring Tool System Prompts
    • Task Goals
    • Communication Preferences
    • Content and Data Strategies
    • Licensing And Permissions
    • Interface Plan
    • Fine-Tuning Plan
    • Prompt Design
    • Custom Instructions
  • Other Custom Model Providers

A headshot of Reed C. Hepler with a background of orange fall leaves. Reed is a white, middle-aged man with short hair and tidy beard. He is wearing a grey jacket over a collared shirt.Reed Hepler is a digital initiatives librarian, instructional designer, artificial intelligence practitioner and consultant, and M.Ed. student at Idaho State University in the Instructional Design and Technology program. He obtained a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science, with emphases in Archives Management and Digital Curation, from Indiana University. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in History with minors in Anthropology and Religious Studies from Utah State University. He has worked at nonprofits, corporations, and educational institutions encouraging information literacy, technology literacy, and effective education. Combining all of these degrees and experiences, Reed strives to promote ethical librarianship and educational initiatives. 

Currently, Reed works as a Digital Initiatives Librarian at a college in Idaho and also has his own consulting firm, heplerconsulting.com. His views and projects can be seen on his LinkedIn page or his blog, CollaborAItion, on Substack. Contact him at [email protected] for more information.

This online presentation via Zoom includes closed captioning and will be recorded for our Vimeo account, which includes a transcript. If you have any further accessibility needs to attend this session, please contact Natalie Porter, BCLA Professional Development Coordinator in advance and BCLA will do our best to support you.