South College Library Blog

We're excited to announce Lauren Jones as the winner of the Library's Summer Sweepstakes! Lauren has won a $10 Amazon gift card. Lauren's name was randomly selected from all eligible entries. Didn't win this time? Subscribe to the library blog today to stay informed of future library outreach events and more. 

 Did you know the South College Library gives students, faculty, and staff access to over 100,000 eBooks? This July, we’re spotlighting stories that explore the ever-evolving relationship between technology and our world—from smart cities and AI-powered healthcare to the ways nature itself inspires innovation. Whether you're curious about the future of urban living, fascinated by artificial intelligence, or looking for a novel that asks big questions about our digital age, there’s something here for you. Check out this month’s eBook display on campus TV screens and dive into books that spark both imagination and insight. 

Future Cities: A Visual Guide by Nick Dunn & Paul Cureton 
What will tomorrow's cities look like—and who gets to decide? Future Cities explores the powerful role of technology and visualization in shaping urban environments and addressing global challenges. Rich with images and critical insight, this book invites readers to reimagine how cities might grow more sustainable, connected, and human-centered. An inspiring read for students interested in design, architecture, or the future of urban living. 

Ninja Plants: Survival and Adaptation in the Plant World by Wiley Blevins 
Think plants are passive? Think again. Ninja Plants introduces readers to the wild, high-tech strategies that real-world plants use to survive and thrive—from mimicking insects to devouring prey. It's a playful and fascinating dive into nature's own form of intelligent design, perfect for biology lovers and curious minds alike. Explore how plants adapt in ways that echo our most advanced technologies. 

Live Longer with AI: How Artificial Intelligence Is Helping Us Extend Our Healthspan and Live Better Too by Tina Woods 
What if artificial intelligence could help us not just live longer—but live better? Live Longer with AI explores how technology is transforming healthcare, aging, and personal well-being. This book is packed with expert insights on how AI can track biomarkers, personalize treatments, and support a greener, more resilient future. A must-read for students in health, tech, or anyone curious about the future of life itself. 

Welcome to Dystopia: 45 Visions of What Lies Ahead edited by Gordon Van Gelder 
What happens when the line between fiction and reality starts to blur? Welcome to Dystopia gathers 45 speculative fiction writers—ranging from rising voices to legendary authors—to imagine near-future worlds marked by collapse, corruption, resistance, and unsettling technology. These stories are darkly humorous, sobering, and eye-opening, making this collection a powerful read for anyone wrestling with what comes next. A perfect fit for students exploring social change, ethics, and the dystopian turn of modern tech. 

AI in Museums: Reflections, Perspectives and Applications 
Museums aren’t just keepers of the past—they’re evolving with the future. This timely collection explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping curation, visitor experiences, translation tools, and even digital art. With insights from scholars and practitioners, it’s an interdisciplinary look at how culture and tech meet in public spaces. A fascinating read for students in museum studies, art, data science, or digital humanities. 

The Dream-Slaves by Darieck Scott 
In a world where magic and machinery blur, Aleixo finds himself caught between human and machine, identity and illusion. The Dream-Slaves is a mind-bending, genre-blurring novel of colonial power, AI, and the fight for freedom in a tech-dominated empire. As Aleixo discovers the truth about himself and the cosmic conflict he’s trapped in, he must decide whether he’s just a tool—or something far greater. This bold, visionary tale is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction, identity politics, and futuristic liberation stories. 

Discover these and more through the South College Library’s digital collection—where technology meets wonder, and the future is just a click away. Let this month’s reads inspire you to think bigger about how AI is shaping the world we live in and the one we’re creating. 

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere these days, from the news headlines to the apps on your phone. But did you know it can also be a helpful companion in your studies? Tools like ChatGPT can support your learning journey if you use them thoughtfully and ethically. 

Here at South College, we care deeply about academic integrity. The AI tools you might use, like ChatGPT, are incredibly powerful, but they are not meant to replace your own critical thinking or research skills. Think of them as a study buddy. They can help clarify tricky concepts or spark ideas, but they should never do the heavy lifting for you. 

Ways to Use AI to Support (Not Replace) Your Learning 

If you've ever stared blankly at a complicated journal article or dense textbook chapter, you’re not alone. One great way to use AI ethically is to ask it to paraphrase or simplify tough text so you can understand it better. You are still responsible for doing the actual work, like reading, analyzing, and forming your own conclusions, but this can help you get past that initial “what is this even saying?” moment. 

Another helpful idea is to use ChatGPT to organize your time. Try feeding it all your upcoming assignments and due dates, then ask for a sample study schedule. You can adjust the plan to fit your style, but it is a great starting point when things feel overwhelming. 

Need help brainstorming paper topics? You can bounce ideas off ChatGPT and get suggestions for themes or angles to explore. Just remember, coming up with the final thesis and arguments is your responsibility. 

Avoiding Common Pitfalls 

While AI can be a great helper, there are lines you should not cross. For example, at South College, if you use AI-generated content in your assignments, you need to properly cite it. Submitting AI-generated work as your own without acknowledging it could lead to academic penalties under the Academic Honor Code. 

It is also important not to use AI to do assignments that require your personal analysis, creative thinking, or moral reasoning. Your professors want to hear your voice and see your skills grow. AI is not capable of ethical judgment or genuine creativity. That is all you. 

Plus, avoid using AI for tasks that involve interacting with people, like interviewing subjects for a research project. AI might sound smart, but it cannot replicate real human experiences or emotions. 

Check Yourself Before You Submit 

A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself, "Am I using this tool to understand and support my learning, or to do the work for me?" 

When in doubt, always check the South College AI Policy. You can find it in the Student Handbook or on our library’s AI resource guide. It is always better to be safe than sorry, and it will help you feel confident that you are staying on the right side of academic integrity. 

If you are curious to learn more about AI, we have a lot of additional resources available. From videos and documentaries to ebooks, you can take a deep dive into the history, use, and future potential of AI. You can find these through our AI library guide, which includes content from Films On Demand and carefully curated ebooks from the South College Library. 

At the end of the day, AI can be an amazing partner in your education. Just remember, it should always help you shine, not take your place.