Are you juggling too many PDFs, websites, and notes for a class or research project? Google’s NotebookLM can help turn that information overload into clarity within minutes!

Join Leatherby Libraries’ hands-on workshop to discover how this free, AI-powered research assistant can summarize materials, generate study guides, and even create podcast-style audio overviews, all from your uploaded documents.

Who is this workshop useful for?

Whether you’re a student preparing for exams, a researcher seeking quick insights, or simply curious about the latest AI tools for learning and productivity, this session will show practical ways to make your reading and note-taking seamless.

How does NotebookLM work?

NotebookLM delivers reliable output by citing responses directly from your uploaded sources, reducing the likelihood of AI errors and hallucinations. In the free version available through the Google domain with a Chapman email address, users can upload up to 50 sources, with each source limited to 500,000 words or 200 MB. NotebookLM uses the latest Gemini model to help extract information from large volumes of text, but you must provide all relevant materials.

What can NotebookLM produce?

Some outputs that can help with studying or researching include:

  • Accurate summaries and outlines
  • Custom study guides, FAQs, and timelines
  • Podcast-style audio overviews
  • Cited Q&A on your specific content

Is my data safe?

Your data in NotebookLM remains private and secure. Google processes uploaded sources only from your session without training on your content or sharing it externally. You can use it for non-sensitive academic materials, such as open access articles or your own notes. However, as with any other AI tools, avoid uploading highly confidential documents (i.e., patient data, proprietary research, or financial account numbers). To determine a document’s sensitivity level, check IS&T’s Data Risk Classification page.

Ready to try NotebookLM?

Join the workshop on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. online (link provided upon registration) or in-person in the Leatherby Libraries Instruction Room 305.

Register through the Leatherby Libraries Workshop calendar.

This workshop isn’t just a demo. Practice with sample files, or upload your own to generate real study guides and podcasts during this hour. Explore how to turn information into understanding with NotebookLM, and leave ready to apply AI to your own studying or research workflow!

By: Elaine Yeung