Rev. Anna Robbins’ reflections on theological education and AI illuminate striking parallels with librarianship. Both fields engage in what I call “(in)formation” work – not merely transferring knowledge but forming whole persons through relationship.
While generative AI may increasingly assume knowledge transfer functions, Robbins rightly points to our enduring purpose: “We’re going to have more need of this than ever in a world where we’re going to have to be wrestling with what does it mean to be human.” This echoes sociologist Allison Pugh’s concept of “connective labor” from her book The Last Human Job – the essential work of empathy, recognition, and relationship-building that becomes more vital in an AI-enhanced world.
Librarians and theological educators were never merely knowledge gatekeepers; we endure as architects of connectedness. We create spaces that resist depersonalization and nurture authentic relationships, where human formation thrives. What changes is not our purpose but our methods: AI will transform how we work; why we work remains human-centered. The transformation ahead doesn’t diminish our relevance but enhances it. As our connective labor becomes increasingly intentional, libraries and theological institutions remain essential spaces where humanity flourishes through (in)formational relationships, a purpose no amount of automation can render obsolete.
(As a parenthetical note, this reflection emerged through contemplation and conversation about Rev. Robbins’ interview between Claude and me, a meaningful collaboration demonstrating how AI partnerships can enrich our thinking about these questions.)
Chris Rosser
First Year and Transfer Experience Librarian, Oklahoma State University
When I became president of Wesley Biblical Seminary in July 2024, I discovered a hesitancy around pursuing Lilly Endowment funding. Despite past efforts – including a planning grant – previous applications had not progressed, leading to understandable reluctance within the team.
When the second round of Pathways for Tomorrow funding was announced, my team was cautious about dedicating time to another proposal. During my first Fellowship of Evangelical Seminary Presidents (FESP) meeting in January, I realized how central Pathways was to many of my colleagues. Amy Kardash and Frank Yamada, who presented, helped me see how WBS’s vision aligned with the initiative’s goals.
Later, I found an In Trust Center podcast that echoed those themes. After sharing it with my team, we gained new clarity and energy. I even asked them to go back and listen to the recording multiple times so we could fully grasp the vision and align our ideas. We’ve now been invited to participate in both the individual and collaborative Pathways programs – marking the furthest we’ve progressed in our history with Lilly funding.
Thank you to the In Trust Center for equipping leaders like me with the insight and encouragement to pursue a faithful future.
Dr. Andy Miller III
President of Wesley Biblical Seminary
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