Silicon Valley Reads 2025
Empowering Humanity: Technology for a Better World
De Anza Hosting Jan. 30 Kickoff
De Anza College will host the Jan. 30 kickoff for the 2025 Silicon Valley Reads community reading and discussion campaign. The kickoff will be a panel discussion
featuring authors of this year's featured books, chosen to reflect this year's theme, "Empowering Humanity: Technology for a Better World."
- Thursday, Jan. 30
- 7-8:30 p.m.
- Doors will open at 6 p.m., so you can buy books and view the "Encoding Empathy" exhibition in the adjoining Euphrat Museum of Art.
- Seating is limited: Please register in advance to attend the in-person event, or to view the livestream.
Mercury News columnist Sal Pizarro will moderate the kickoff event, which will be held live in the VPAC and also streamed online, with free admission in both formats. The authors will share diverse perspectives on the future of technology and artificial intelligence, including its impact and its potential to create a more just and equitable society.
"Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming our lives," said Jennifer Weeks, co-chair of Silicon Valley Reads and county librarian for the Santa Clara County Library District. "We are excited to provide books and programs that ignite conversations about AI's potential, helping everyone better understand and engage in these empowering tools."
The "Encoding Empathy" exhibit at the Euphrat explores advancing technology and the human touch, with digitally generated images blended into traditional paintings, 3D printed schulptures, cobotically produced ceramics, pixel-mirrored prints – and more.
This Year's Featured Books
The Worlds I See
This nonfiction book by Fei-Fei Li is a thought-provoking examination of AI from a leading expert recently dubbed "The Godmother of AI" by Wired Magazine. Li shares her personal journey and insights into the development and potential of AI, offering a unique perspective on the technology's impact on society.
The Mountain in the Sea
A captivating sci-fi tale by former Santa Clara University professor Ray Nayler, this novel follows a marine biologist who is studying a highly intelligent octopus species, sparking a global race to understand and potentially exploit the species. The story touches upon themes of environmentalism, technology, and the complexities of human nature.
Loneliness and Company
This novel by Charlee Dyroff looks at human connection in a near-future New York, where isolation has seemingly been eradicated. The book follows a woman tasked with training an AI companion, leading to an exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of technological advancements.
Additional books have been selected for young readers. Silicon Valley Reads will host a series of events including author talks, panel discussions, educational workshops, demonstrations, crafts and other activities through February and March, where participants will have the opportunity to:
- Hear from leading figures in the AI movement, gaining insights into the latest advancements and potential applications
- Examine how technology is shaping our daily lives
- Discuss the ethical implications of AI and other emerging technologies
- Learn about innovative ways to use technology to address societal challenges and create a better world