The application period for 2027 OCUL Visiting Researchers is open until November 17. Library professionals from the consortium’s membership are invited to submit an application that aligns with OCUL strategic priorities and/or academic library services or librarianship.

OCUL has released its 2025-2026 annual report, highlighting the deep collaboration that powers the consortium. The report celebrates progress made on four strategic plan priorities, new shared digitization standards for accessible content, programming to build AI readiness across academic libraries, and more.

OCUL’s virtual reference service is marking a major milestone and a new name. Ask the Library / Biblio-Clavardage, which connects students and researchers at participating OCUL institutions with real-time help over chat or text message, celebrates its 15th anniversary this September.

The latest post in our AI Tools for Academic Libraries blog series highlights some of the open-weight AI models that can be alternatives to the familiar commercial frontier tools like ChatGPT or Claude that often raise concerns about privacy, transparency, and equity. For libraries, open-weight models provide greater control over data and AI environments for better alignment with professional commitments to intellectual freedom and access to information.

Curious how Microsoft Copilot can support the development of students’ essential research, critical thinking, and scholarly communication skills? Join the Oct. 7 OCUL AI Exchange to learn how AI can be used as a tool for critical evaluation rather than a replacement for undergraduate research and writing processes.

The September installment of OCUL’s Beyond the Algorithm Reading Club explores trust and AI. Read the month’s curated article, watch a conversation with AI expert Dr. Jessie Hall, and sign up for one of two community discussions to reflect on whether and when AI systems should be trusted.

Academic libraries are continually looking for ways to respond to diverse research needs while stretching collection budgets. The OCUL shared evidence-based acquisitions program, helmed by a small working group of volunteers from OCUL member libraries, demonstrates how collaborative collection development can help achieve this goal.

Note: The deadline to submit a proposal for 2027 funding has been extended to October 16, 2026. OCUL is now accepting proposals for its New Initiatives Fund, for projects to begin in 2027. The fund supports high-impact projects that advance OCUL's strategic priorities and widely benefit Ontario university libraries. Eligible OCUL groups and partners are invited to submit proposals by September 15, 2026.

The 2026 Collaborative Futures Mini Conference brought together nearly 200 attendees for a morning of engaging presentations and now the conference recording is available to watch online.