Dive deep into the ethical challenges of AI with the Ontario Council of University Libraries’ (OCUL) new reading club, Beyond the Algorithm.
Open to any academic library worker, this bimonthly professional development series is designed to help participants navigate the evolving role of AI in librarianship as it affects human rights, environmentalism and emotion.
Each installment of the reading club will explore topics across three steps:
- Read the month’s pre-selected readings.
- Listen to (or watch!) a recorded conversation between an invited AI expert and OCUL’s AI and Machine Learning Program Manager.
- Discuss the readings and recording at a one-hour virtual gathering.
Starting September 2025, Beyond the Algorithm will be offered alternating months until summer 2026.
The first installment examines human rights and AI, including chapter readings from “Artificial intelligence, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law: a primer” and a recorded conversation with Lynn Long, Senior Education and Learning Specialist with the Conflict Management Office at the University of Waterloo, who recently developed the AI Human Rights Impact Assessment for Educators and Students.
Registration is required to attend the virtual discussions:
- Sign up for Wednesday, September 24, 11 a.m.-noon EST
- Sign up for Monday, September 29, 1-2 p.m. EST
To ensure discussions are interactive, space is limited. Register early to reserve your spot.
Learn more about OCUL’s AI and machine learning professional development and resources.