TLDR: The Toronto Public Library (TPL) is rolling out new initiatives focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) education and algorithmic literacy. These programs aim to equip the public with essential skills to understand and navigate the digital world, critically evaluate information, and recognize algorithmic biases. A forthcoming webinar, scheduled for November 5, 2025, will highlight the ‘Introduction to Artificial Intelligence’ program and discuss innovative partnerships and staff training.
The Toronto Public Library (TPL) is taking a proactive step in fostering digital literacy by introducing new programs centered on Artificial Intelligence (AI) education and algorithmic literacy. This initiative is designed to empower individuals within both local and global communities, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape. The core objective is to enable participants to think critically about information, identify misinformation and disinformation, and comprehend the inherent biases within algorithms.
Fiona O’Connor, Senior Services Specialist for Digital Literacy Initiatives at the Toronto Public Library, is at the forefront of these efforts. The programs, including a notable ‘Introduction to Artificial Intelligence’ offering, are structured to build foundational understanding and practical skills.
These initiatives will be further detailed in an upcoming 60-minute webinar titled ‘Activating AI Education and Algorithmic Literacy at Toronto Public Library,’ hosted by the American Library Association (ALA). The webinar, scheduled for November 5, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM CST, will delve into various aspects of TPL’s approach. Key topics to be covered include innovative programming strategies, impactful partnerships, staff training initiatives, and measurable successes and lessons learned from the programs. Additionally, the session will address advocacy efforts in the digital literacy space and provide specific highlights from the ‘Introduction to Artificial Intelligence’ program.
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While the underlying AI courses offered by the Toronto Public Library are aimed at public accessibility, the webinar itself is a professional development event with a registration fee: $89 for the general public, $80.10 for ALA members, and $57.85 for RUSA members. The webinar is targeted at individuals interested in developing or implementing algorithmic literacy programming in various library settings, including academic, public, school, and special libraries. It will be conducted via Zoom, with closed captioning available, and will allow for text-based chat interaction with the presenter. The session will also be recorded and shared with registrants.
