As AI and machine learning tools continue to evolve, the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) is seeking deeper input to better understand how these technologies are influencing librarianship and library services.
OCUL is hosting a series of online focus groups between January and March 2026 and invites academic library workers to join the conversation. Insights gathered through these discussions will help inform consortial strategies that support innovation, ethical practices, and respond to changes in attitudes, usage, and professional development needs.
Focus groups are limited to 12 participants per session. Each focus group is 90 minutes and will be held on Zoom.
Sign up for a focus group:
- January 26, 9:30-11 a.m. Eastern Time
- February 3, 1-2:30 p.m. Eastern Time
- February 9, 1:30-3 p.m. Eastern Time
- February 13, 10-11:30 a.m. Eastern Time
- February 17, 1-2:30 p.m. Eastern Time
- February 26, 9-10:30 a.m. Eastern Time
- March 2, 10:30 a.m.-noon Eastern Time
- March 4, 3-4:30 p.m. Eastern Time
In 2025, OCUL surveyed academic library workers to gain a preliminary understanding of their experiences and thoughts on AI and machine learning. As a recommendation emerging from the survey, the online focus groups are meant explore library workers' perspectives in greater depth.
For More Information
The focus groups are part of the OCUL AI and Machine Learning Initiative.
For questions about the focus groups or AI and Machine Learning Initiative, please email Program Manager Kari D. Weaver: kari.weaver@ocul.on.ca.