AI is changing how we live and work, but not everyone has a seat at the table. These five providers are making AI education accessible to everyday people, libraries, and community groups across the US.
The AI Literacy Landscape in the US
AI is no longer a niche topic for techies. It's woven into our daily lives, from weather apps to social media. Yet many Americans feel unprepared to use it. A 2025 study found that 34% of Gen Z adults in the Heartland were slightly or not at all prepared to use AI in their future job or career. Meanwhile, a 2025 Gallup poll revealed that nearly all Americans use at least one AI-enabled product weekly. This gap between use and understanding is fueling demand for beginner-friendly AI education. Libraries, community centers, and nonprofits are stepping up, offering classes and workshops to help people understand what AI is, when it's useful, and what cautions to consider. The providers in this roundup are leading that charge, each with a unique approach to making AI approachable for all.
How We Evaluated These Providers
We looked at five key factors: service scope, pricing clarity, local fit, beginner-friendliness, and practical application. For service scope, we considered whether providers offer one-time classes, multi-week courses, or customized workshops. Pricing clarity mattered: some list exact fees, while others require a quote. Local fit examined how well each provider serves community groups, libraries, or national audiences. Beginner-friendliness assessed whether no tech background is needed. Finally, practical application focused on real-world use, not just theory. Each provider stood out in different ways: Gary Teaches AI excels at hands-on, personalized sessions; Library Juice Academy offers structured online courses with CEU credits; NNLM provides free, regionally tailored training; ALA delivers a broad resource hub for librarians; and OCLC WebJunction shares actionable programming ideas and case studies.
Here's a quick look at the five providers, their focus, and who they serve best.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Library Juice Academy | Librarians seeking CEU credits |
| Gary Teaches AI | Hands-on, personalized beginner workshops |
| NNLM | Medical and public library staff |
| ALA | Library leaders seeking curated resources |
| OCLC WebJunction | Public library programming ideas |
A Closer Look at Each Provider
#1 Library Juice Academy
A screenshot of the Library Juice Academy website.
Library Juice Academy offers online professional development for librarians, including a course titled 'AI for Library Instruction.' This four-week course costs $250 and provides 1.5 CEUs or 15 PDHs. It's designed for people who are new or uncertain about embracing AI, gently guiding them to enhance library instruction without overwhelming current practices. You'll learn how AI can improve information literacy and create engaging learning experiences for patrons. The course also covers responsible integration, focusing on user privacy and data protection. It's a structured, credit-bearing option for library staff who want to build AI skills.
#2 Gary Teaches AI
A screenshot of the Gary Teaches AI website.
Gary Teaches AI provides practical, beginner-friendly AI workshops and one-on-one coaching for libraries, community groups, and organizations. With a focus on everyday applications, Gary brings 30 years of Fortune 200 leadership and 14 AI certifications to his classes. His 'Coffee & Chatbots' class is a relaxed, 90-minute hands-on session where you learn what AI is, try it yourself, and leave with practical ways to use it. For organizations, he partners with you to design a session that fits your audience, whether it's a library, church, startup, or nonprofit. He also offers one-on-one guidance to help you choose tools and set up workflows. No tech background is needed, making AI accessible to all.
#3 NNLM
A screenshot of the NNLM website.
The Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM) offers 'Navigating New Norms: Harnessing Generative AI for Library Services and Solutions,' a training class for library staff. NNLM is coordinated by 14 institutions across the US, providing region-specific support. Their training helps libraries integrate generative AI into services and solutions. It's part of their broader initiative to advance health information access. The class is likely free or low-cost, making it accessible to a wide range of libraries. If you're in a medical or public library, NNLM's regional offices can tailor support to your needs.
#4 ALA
A screenshot of the ALA website.
The American Library Association (ALA) hosts a comprehensive 'AI Learning Events and Resources' page. It aggregates events, webinars, and tools for librarians at all levels. You'll find guidance on AI programming, ethical considerations, and digital literacy. The ALA also offers grants and awards to support library innovation. Their resources are ideal for library directors and staff who need a central hub for AI learning. While not a direct training provider, ALA curates and connects you to the best available content.
#5 OCLC WebJunction
A screenshot of the OCLC WebJunction website.
OCLC WebJunction publishes articles and case studies on how public libraries are teaching AI and digital literacy skills. Their piece 'How public libraries are teaching AI and digital literacy skills' outlines practical programming ideas and examples. It highlights why the public needs to know about AI, citing research on preparedness and risks like AI-driven phishing. WebJunction also offers courses and webinars on related topics. If you're a library staffer looking for inspiration and actionable steps, this is a valuable resource. It's part of OCLC's broader mission to support libraries worldwide.
How to Choose the Right AI Education Provider
Start by identifying your audience. Are you a librarian needing CEU credits? Library Juice Academy fits. Are you a community group wanting a fun, hands-on intro? Gary Teaches AI is your go-to. If you're in a medical library, NNLM's regional support is invaluable. For a broad overview of resources, ALA's hub is unmatched. And if you need programming inspiration, OCLC WebJunction delivers. Consider your budget: some options are free, others require a fee. Also think about format: online, in-person, or hybrid. Finally, check if the provider offers customization. The best choice is the one that meets your learners where they are.
Bringing AI to Your Community: A Simple Workflow
Ready to host an AI event? Follow this workflow. First, assess your audience's needs and tech comfort. Second, choose a provider that matches: for a beginner-friendly workshop, contact Gary Teaches AI; for a structured course, enroll in Library Juice Academy. Third, set a date and promote it through your library or community channels. Fourth, gather feedback and iterate. Fifth, consider follow-up sessions to deepen learning. With the right partner, you can demystify AI and empower your community.
The Bottom Line
AI literacy is no longer optional. These five providers are making it accessible, practical, and even fun. Whether you're a librarian, a community organizer, or a curious adult, there's a resource here for you. Start with one, or mix and match to create a comprehensive learning path. The important thing is to take that first step. Your community will thank you.