Librarians in Philadelphia and across the U.S. are teaching adults how to disable AI features on their devices, sparking a viral movement to reclaim digital autonomy.

Librarians across Philadelphia and dozens of other U.S. cities have launched a wave of “Avoiding AI” workshops, teaching adults how to turn off or limit artificial‑intelligence features on smartphones, browsers and smart home devices.

Why the Workshops Went Viral

Many participants are frustrated with pervasive data collection and algorithmic recommendations from Big Tech platforms. By learning to disable voice assistants, predictive text, and personalized ads, they feel they are reclaiming control over their digital lives.

The movement gained traction after a video of a Philadelphia Public Library session was shared on social media, amassing millions of views and prompting libraries in New York, Chicago and Seattle to roll out similar classes.

What the Sessions Cover

  • How to mute or delete voice assistants like Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Steps to opt out of targeted advertising on major browsers
  • Disabling AI‑driven suggestions in email and news apps
  • Using privacy‑focused alternatives for search and streaming

Each workshop lasts about ninety minutes and includes a hands‑on tutorial, a Q&A segment, and printed cheat sheets that participants can take home.

Community Response

Attendees report a sense of relief after the sessions, noting that turning off AI features reduces unwanted notifications and improves battery life. Library staff say the classes also foster broader conversations about digital rights and data ethics.

Critics argue that completely disabling AI may limit accessibility tools for users with disabilities, prompting some libraries to offer parallel sessions on inclusive technology options.

It felt empowering to finally understand how to take back my privacy without needing a tech degree.

The “Avoiding AI” workshops are free, open to the public, and scheduled on a rolling basis. Interested individuals can register through their local library’s website or by visiting the information desk in person.

For more details, see the TechCrunch coverage of librarians hosting viral ‘Avoiding AI’ workshops.