Hybrid

Since 2022, AI labs in Silicon Valley have been pursuing what they call "superintelligence," a form of artificial intelligence that vastly surpasses human capabilities and is widely considered the point at which humanity itself becomes obsolete.

What drives these AI labs to build technology that is allegedly this threatening? What good could come of continually seeking the catalyst of human extinction?

In this course, we will examine how AI labs, such as OpenAI and Anthropic, have repeatedly communicated their intent to achieve superintelligent AI. "Superintelligence: The Race to the End of the World" will break through the noise and offer practical guidance on the realities and falsities of AI as we know it.

Date: December 15, 2026

Time: 10 am-12 pm

Location: Education Center, 106

Tyler Provencher is the Program Coordinator for Greater Franklin Digital Literacy (GFDL). GFDL is a free community technology education and support program offering assistance in basic computer skills through advanced AI analysis.

GFDL is proud to partner with 16 community locations, including Gold LEAF, across Franklin County to provide community members with the tools and guidance they need to successfully and confidently use their digital devices.

In-person

Using a variation of a long-stitch binding, we will make a small journal with sewn signatures and a leather-wrapped cover. Previous sewing experience is not required.

Date: January 5, 2027            Snow Date: January 8, 2027?

Time: 10 am-12 pm

Location: Mantor Library, second floor

Laurie is the Head of Reference Services at Mantor Library. She has been making all kinds of books for many years and enjoys teaching book arts to others.

In-person

In August 2026, Nadine Marchand & Deb Stahler left for an 11-day Road Scholar trip to Newfoundland & Labrador. They will share pictures, stories, & information about the trip.

Date: January 14, 2027            Snow Date: January 21, 2027 

Time: 10:30 am-12 pm

Location: Education Center, 112

Nadine & Deb are long-time GLI members. They have differences of opinion about traveling. They knew little to nothing about this Canadian province when they started planning their vacation.

Nadine had three requirements for the 2026 vacation: in Canada, no flying, and little time planning. Together, Nadine & Deb chose this adventure.

In-person

Come see the newly renovated Maine State Museum! The museum has been closed since 2020 for much-needed renovations and updates. The grand opening is scheduled for October 24, 2026.

Like so many projects, the renovation of the Cultural Building, the 55-year-old structure that houses the State Museum, State Archives, and State Library, was more complex than anyone expected.

The building required a down-to-the-bones rebuilding to comply with new building codes, achieve energy efficiency, create a safe and stable interior environment, upgrade technology systems, and provide better accessibility for all visitors.

Bernard Fishman, Museum Director, will take our group around for an overview tour of the new exhibits for 45-60 minutes. After that, we can spend as little or as much time as we'd like on our own in the galleries. https://mainestatemuseum.org

We will carpool from Farmington, leaving in time to find parking during the busy legislative season. Those who are interested can lunch in Augusta.  There is a cafe on campus at the Burton M. Cross State Office Building, as well as other options in Augusta.

Date: January 19, 2027                Snow date: January 26, 2027

Time: 10 am 

Location:  230 State St, Augusta, ME 04330

Carpooling: TBD

Bernard Fishman is the director of the Maine State Museum. He began his career as an Egyptologist working in Luxor, Egypt, as an archaeologist for the University of Chicago. He has given two presentations to GLI previously, both of which were very interesting.

In-person

Will the wolves return in Louise Penny's latest book, "Miss Wolcott's Ghost" (to be published on October 20th)? We don't know, but we think there is a chance that some wolfish villains may reappear. Join us to follow the clues and unravel the threads that lead Armand Gamache and company through Penny's latest mystery, which might offer several opportunities to join the villagers at the bistro.

Date: January 27, 2027             Snow Date: February 3, 2027

Time: 10-11:30 am

Location: TBD

Deb Stahler and Cathryn Wimett are past presenters of "The Grey Wolf" and "The Black Wolf." They keep hoping for more Three Pines adventures.