Speaking

Rebekah Cummings
Keynote Speaker on AI, Libraries, Leadership, and Advocacy

I’m Rebekah Cummings— former President of the Utah Library Association, Co-Founder of Let Utah Read,  Digital Matters Director, and Co-Director of the Summer Institute “Humanities Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence.” In 2024, I was the first librarian to run for Lt. Governor on a major party ticket in the U.S.   I am passionate about connecting with audiences on a wide range of topics such as artificial intelligence, advocacy, leadership, boundaries, and censorship. See below of topics I discuss and recorded talks to see if I might be the right fit for your next event! 

"Rebekah is an engaging, passionate, and truly charismatic speaker. Her keynote on boundaries at a Utah Library Association conference remains one of the most impactful presentations I have ever attended. My current research focuses on AI use in libraries, and her keynote on that topic was exceptional—clear, insightful, and deeply relevant. Every time I hear Rebekah speak, I leave inspired and energized."
Marissa Bischoff
Former Utah Library Association President

Topics I Discuss

01.

Artificial Intelligence

Exploring the complex relationship between AI, information, and society, particularly the role of librarians and teachers in an age of AI. 

02.

Leadership

Cultivating empathetic, curiosity-led leadership that assumes good intent and creates an environment where others can thrive. 

03.

Boundaries

Creating and holding healthy boundaries; the resentment and burnout that comes from not enforcing those boundaries; and strategies for learning how to say “yes” or “no” to preserve your precious time for your best work and highest contributions.

04.

Advocacy

Forming and sustaining coalitions, building political power, running for office, fundraising, messaging effectively, battling imposter syndrome, and showing up for yourself and your community in huge, gutsy ways. 

05.

Censorship

What is censorship and book banning? Why does it matter? What role do libraries play? What is the state of censorship in the United States and particularly in Utah?

06.

Running for Office

What a first time candidate needs to know about running for office or simply becoming more civically engaged. 

07.

Other topics!

Is there something else you would like me to talk about to your group? Let’s chat! 

“Rebekah’s keynote was a highlight of our event. More than 80% of respondents to our evaluation survey rated her talk as one of the most valuable elements of the entire retreat. Her presentation was timely, relevant, and sparked meaningful conversation among all of our participants.”
Shane Wallace
Conference Chair, Utah Academic Library Consortium

Talk Highlights

Artificial Intelligence

CNI Keynote on AI + Libraries

AI In Practice - Panel

ULA Talk

In Person-

If You Have Any Questions,
Please Don't Hesitate to Contact Me.

Via  the link below you will be able to find my contact information, social media links and a contact form for direct contact.

Let's Work Together