IMLS Smart Tech, WIse Elders Grant - Kristina Shiroma

Led by Dr. Kristina Shiroma, Assistant Professor at the Louisiana State University School of Information Studies (LSU-SIS), the project is supported by a grant of $393,233 to investigate factors influencing artificial intelligence (AI) literacy, perceptions, and adoption among rural older adults in Louisiana and to develop a sustainable, community-informed framework for AI literacy workshops tailored to this population.

Smart Tech, Wise Elders: An Educational Partnership in Understanding AI Literacy with/for Rural Older Adults is a three-year Early Career Research Development project funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (Goal 2, Objective 2.2). Led by Dr. Kristina Shiroma, Assistant Professor at the Louisiana State University School of Information Studies (LSU-SIS), the project is supported by a grant of $393,233 to investigate factors influencing artificial intelligence (AI) literacy, perceptions, and adoption among rural older adults in Louisiana and to develop a sustainable, community-informed framework for AI literacy workshops tailored to this population.

As AI-driven technologies become increasingly embedded in healthcare delivery, older adults, particularly those living in rural communities, face compounded challenges related to digital access, health disparities, ageism, and limited representation in AI research and design. Little is known about how rural older adults understand, experience, and evaluate AI technologies. This knowledge gap limits the ability of healthcare providers, libraries, and community organizations to support informed and equitable engagement with AI-powered tools.

Using a community-based participatory research approach, the project will conduct in-depth, semi-structured interviews with approximately 100 rural older adults across selected Louisiana parishes. Interviews will explore participants’ experiences with AI, perceived benefits and risks, information needs, and preferred strategies for AI learning. Data will be analyzed using modified reflexive thematic analysis to ensure findings remain grounded in participants’ lived experiences and community contexts.

Project outcomes include peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations across aging, health, and information science disciplines, and the development of a replicable framework for AI literacy workshops delivered through rural libraries. By centering the voices and expertise of rural older adults, Smart Tech, Wise Elders aims to advance understanding of AI literacy as a critical component of health information literacy, strengthen the role of libraries as trusted learning spaces, and support equitable engagement with emerging AI technologies in rural communities.

 

Shiroma, Kristina. “Smart Tech, Wise Elders: An Educational Partnership in Understanding AI Literacy with/for Rural Older Adults.” Institute of Museum and Library Services, Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program, Early Career Research Development Grant, 2025 – 2028. $393,233 Funded.