In this latest progress update, OCUL advances its exploration of AI and machine learning for responsible, ethical use in academic libraries. Early pilot projects found improved transcription and metadata results while emphasizing the need for human quality assurance and strong technical infrastructure. Three capacity-building streams continue to foster OCUL member engagement and learning.

Two Collaborative Futures working groups are seeking nominations from OCUL member libraries to engage in reparative metadata remediation and maintain shared bibliographic records. Nomination period closes May 29, 2026.

The latest post in our AI Tools for Academic Libraries blog series highlights the functionality of various AI video development features, evaluating whether they meaningfully support faster, more sustainable video creation in an academic library context.

The May installment of OCUL’s Beyond the Algorithm Reading Club explores human-centered design and AI. Read the month’s curated article, watch a conversation with article author Dr. Lai-Tze Fan, and sign up for one of two community discussions to reflect on human-centered AI design as both a technical and cultural practice.

The next sessions of the OCUL AI Exchange take place June 10 and 11, welcoming Joël Rivard as he introduces a variety of free and paid AI-enhanced production tools that can support library video projects. This installment of the AI Exchange features English and French online events. Register to save your spot!

The March installment of OCUL’s Beyond the Algorithm Reading Club explores AI sycophancy. Read the month’s curated article, watch an expert guest interview, and join one of two community discussions to reflect on and share your perspectives on this oft-overlooked topic when it comes to ethical, responsible AI.

Join OCUL on April 13 for a special discussion with Learning Services Librarian Lorisia MacLeod as she covers a brief overview of Indigenous librarianship, plus speaks to the recruitment and retention of Indigenous information students and staff based on her personal experiences.

The next session in the OCUL AI Exchange welcomes Toronto Metropolitan University Libraries to share how their new workshop series helps students, staff, and faculty build confidence and clarity in working with AI. Session attendees will receive sample workshop activities, slides, and practical resources – all ready to adapt for local teaching, learning, or professional practice.

In this progress update, OCUL moves forward its exploration of AI and machine learning for responsible, ethical use in academic libraries. Two pilot projects reach major milestones and an expanded capacity building program offers learning opportunities across online events, a blog partnership, and curated reading club.

The latest post in our AI Tools for Academic Libraries series takes a look at several speech-to-text tools that libraries could use to improve materials' accessibility and enable text-based searching of audio and video collections.