Join us at PWPL this February for a programming series called Media Smart: Identifying Misinformation in the Information Age. We have a variety of programs around topics such as AI (Artificial Intelligence), Identifying Misinformation, Misinformation and the Media, and Banking Fraud.

In addition, we will have a book discussion about the book ‘Julia: a Retelling of George Orwell’s 1984.’ You can pick up physical copies of this title at PWPL. During the month of February, we have unlimited simultaneous (both eBook and audiobook) use of this title in Libby, so don’t miss it!

Get more information about this program series on our website: www.pwpl.info.

Julia: A Retelling of George Orwell’s 1984 by Sandra Newman (FIC NEWMAN).

Rejoin the world of Orwell’s 1984 for another disturbing look at the nation of Oceania. Julia Worthing is Winston Smith’s love interest in 1984, and the story is told through her eyes. As with 1984, this novel lays bare our own world in haunting and provocative ways.

Doppelganger: A Trip into the Mirror World by Naomi Klein (921 Klein).

Author Naomi Klein is frequently confused with Naomi Wolf, whom she humorously calls ‘Other Naomi.’ The contrast between the two is stark. As both penned books and made media appearances, the confusion about their statements and identities escalated, leading to Naomi Kelin losing control of her online identity. Klein recounts this experience while delving into discussions about Conspiracy Culture, highlighting the complexity of discerning truth. In an era of heightened suspicions, the focus shifts from questioning whether we are being deceived to grappling with the identity of the deceivers and the motives behind manipulation.

Everyday Media Literacy: An Analog Guide for Your Digital Life by Sue Ellen Christian (302.23 CH).

Sue Ellen will be our keynote speaker on February 22, 2024. Be sure to join us for a virtual discussion with this leader in information literacy. ‘Everyday Media Literacy’ provides readers with an excellent overview of how to be informed but not exhausted by news and information. She also tackles privacy and the consumerism involved in the sharing of your personal information. If you believe in the power of information but want to be an informed consumer, this book will give you the tools needed to be just that.

Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What is Human in a World of Machines by Joy Buolamwini (006.3 BU).

Dr. Joy Buolamwini is the founder of the Algorithmic Justic League (https://www.ajl.org). Her MIT research is featured in the Emmy-nominated documentary ‘Coded Bias.’ In ‘Unmasking AI,’ Buolamwini addresses the issues around AI and marginalized communities, ranging from poor facial recognition (or facial misrecognition) to hiring software disqualifying candidates from communities of color. This is a fascinating look at AI through the lens of social justice and equality.

By Andrea Ingmire

Library Director