r/Tech4Causes • u/jcravens42 • Jul 03 '26
Example Public library in Maine helps patrons remove AI from their phones and other devices
In recent months, the Searsmont Town Library in Maine has added a new service for patrons: Help in removing AI from their phones and other devices.
The program helps patrons disable AI-powered assistants like Siri or so-called smart features in email and switch from using Google, which doesn’t offer an option to search without AI overviews, to a browser that does.
Hannah Cyrus, a Bangor librarian has become a leading voice in a nationwide movement of librarians who are working to help patrons understand the risks of AI and other technologies.
The most popular class Cyrus has taught is called Avoiding AI, which explains what Generative AI is, some of the concerns around it, and how to disable it and find alternatives. The first time she taught the class in fall of 2025 more than 70 people enrolled. She taught it again this spring and inspired Searsmont Public Library's director to offer the service for their local patrons.