The September 2026 installment of the Ontario Council of University Libraries (OCUL) Beyond the Algorithm Reading Club invites participants to explore whether and when AI systems should be trusted – and how librarians can help communities critically evaluate AI-generated information.
Beyond the Algorithm is a three-part reading club, featuring a curated article on timely AI-related topics impacting academic libraries, a recorded interview with a guest expert, and online community discussions to spark reflection and conversation.
For September, participants can:
- Read "Trust and Transparency in Artificial Intelligence” by Dr. Thomas Mitchell for an examination of how different kinds of transparency influence perspectives on trusting AI.
- Watch an interview with Dr. Jessie Hall from Carleton College (Minnesota) as she speaks to task context’s role in trusting AI and whether the same standards for transparency should apply to AI and humans.
- Share thoughts and insights on the month’s reading, interview, and topic at one of two community discussions.
Register for a community discussion:
- Thursday, September 24, 2026, 11 a.m.-noon Eastern Time (Zoom)
- Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 1-2 p.m. Eastern Time (Zoom)
Beyond the Algorithm is open to all academic library workers – being from an OCUL member library is not required for participation.
Visit the event page for links to the selected article, recorded conversation with Dr. Hall, and additional recommended resources on trust and AI.
For More Information
Beyond the Algorithm is part of the OCUL AI and Machine Learning Initiative.
For questions about the reading club or AI and Machine Learning Initiative, please email Program Manager Kari D. Weaver: kari.weaver@ocul.on.ca.