Copyright Officer and Associate Librarian Stephen Spong joins the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) this year as a visiting researcher, with a project that explores how generative AI challenges traditional understandings of creativity, originality, and authorship.
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.
As the end of another year approaches, we want to thank you for being part of the OCUL and Scholars Portal community.
Because of your support, in 2025 we celebrated some exciting developments and milestones:
Are you interested in the intersections of creation, copyright, intellectual property, and AI? Join the upcoming installment of the Beyond the Algorithm Reading Club and take part in community discussions on this complex topic.
In January, this Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) reading club will explore copyright and generative AI through the article, "The AI-Copyright Trap," and a recorded conversation between its author Dr. Carys Craig (York University) and OCUL AI and Machine Learning Program Director, Catherine Steeves.