HOLMES BEACH – “Demystifying AI: What It Is and What It Can Do For You” was the title of the lecture given by Manatee County Librarian of Information Services Ryan Nunez.
Speaking to a capacity crowd gathered inside the Island Branch Library’s community room on Thursday, Feb. 5, Nunez spent nearly an hour discussing artificial intelligence (AI).
Nunez said artificial intelligence has been under development for more than 50 years, though its rapid expansion into public use has occurred largely within the past five years. He referenced the origins of AI in 1950, when British scientist Alan Turing proposed what became known as the Turing Test – a concept designed to determine whether a machine could imitate human conversation well enough that a person could not tell the difference.
Nunez then shifted to modern applications, highlighting widely used AI platforms such as OpenAI ChatGPT, Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot. He explained that these tools allow users to generate information, draft documents and complete various tasks in seconds.
The presentation addressed both the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence. Nunez discussed concerns that included copyright infringement, plagiarism and the spread of misinformation. He emphasized that AI users are responsible for verifying information generated by AI systems and they should use AI technology ethically.
During the question-and-answer session, attendees asked about AI’s role in current news events and the challenges of identifying misinformation. Nunez reiterated that individuals must evaluate and confirm the accuracy of the information they receive.
Another audience question focused on controversies surrounding data centers that support AI systems. Nunez explained that concerns in some communities center on the high electricity and water usage required to operate the facilities.
“With artificial intelligence still new to many people, questions and research are ongoing,” Nunez said.
After the discussion ended, Friends of the Library volunteer Sue Seiter thanked Nunez and encouraged attendees to return for the three remaining lectures in the eight-week lecture series.
Robert Gaglio will present his “The Other Italy” lecture on Thursday, Feb. 12. “Captain” Scott Moore will present his “50 Years on Anna Maria Island” lecture on Thursday, Feb. 19, and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe founder Nate Jacobs will conclude the lecture series on Thursday, Feb. 26. The free lectures begin at 2 p.m. The Island Branch Library is located at 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
