Libraries across the UK and beyond are witnessing an unexpected surge in demand for workshops focused on 'Avoiding AI', as members of the public seek to reclaim control over their digital experiences. These sessions, led by librarians, guide attendees through the practical steps of disabling unwanted AI features embedded in everything from smartphones to popular online services. The phenomenon highlights a growing sentiment of 'tech fatigue' and a desire for greater autonomy in an increasingly AI-driven world.
The concept originated with Hannah Cyrus, a librarian in Maine, USA, who observed a rising number of patrons asking for help to 'turn off' AI functionalities. Her initial workshops, which typically attract around a dozen participants for standard tech classes, saw registration capped at 30 with extensive waitlists and online attendance reaching 70 people per session. This unexpected popularity prompted dozens of librarians globally, including Charlie Bailey in South Philadelphia, to replicate the model, often with similar overwhelming responses from their communities.
These hour-long workshops typically begin with a basic explanation of how consumer AI tools and chatbots function, outlining both potential benefits and reasons why individuals might choose to opt out. The core of the session then involves step-by-step demonstrations, often using a projector, to show attendees how to disable specific AI features on common devices and platforms, such as Apple Intelligence and Google Gemini. Participants are also encouraged to share their own tips, fostering a sense of community among those wary of constant AI integration.
Librarians involved view these workshops as a crucial extension of digital literacy. Charlie Bailey emphasised the importance of helping people reclaim autonomy over their use of AI tools, especially when their design appears to push for adoption. The strong public reaction, including social media posts garnering thousands of likes and shares for workshop announcements, suggests a widespread shared sentiment of scepticism and frustration regarding the omnipresence of AI in daily life.
For UK businesses, this trend signals a potential shift in consumer preference. While many companies are eager to integrate AI for efficiency and personalisation, a segment of the population is actively seeking to disengage. This could mean that businesses need to offer clear opt-out mechanisms for AI features and transparently communicate how AI is being used, or risk alienating customers who prioritise privacy and control. The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) already provides guidance on AI and data protection, emphasising transparency and fairness, while the EU AI Act, though not directly applicable to the UK, sets a global precedent for AI regulation that could influence future UK policy, particularly concerning consumer rights and choices.
Experts suggest that this public pushback could foster innovation in user-centric design, prompting tech companies to offer more granular control over AI features rather than forcing adoption. It also underscores the importance of public education on AI's capabilities, limitations, and ethical implications. While AI offers significant opportunities for economic growth and efficiency, the workshops highlight a critical need for balance between technological advancement and individual agency.