ACRL – Bridging the Gap: An AI Community of Practice

Academic libraries are navigating rapid technological change as artificial intelligence reshapes how research is conducted, information is accessed and knowledge is evaluated. For early-career librarians—particularly those working in under-resourced institutions—the pace of this change can be both an opportunity and a barrier. Without structured support, access to training and a strong peer network, it can be difficult to translate emerging AI tools and ethical considerations into practical guidance for students and faculty.

In 2025, the Elsevier Foundation partnered with the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) to pilot Bridging the Gap: An AI Community of Practice, a professional development initiative designed to strengthen AI literacy among underrepresented, early-career librarians . Through a cohort-based, train-the-trainer model, the program equips participants with the knowledge, ethical grounding and leadership tools needed to guide responsible AI adoption within their institutions.

What We Do 

This program, led by ACRL President Leo Lo, addresses the growing need for AI literacy training among early-career librarians, who are uniquely positioned as future leaders and change-makers. Using a “train-the-trainer” model, participants will gain foundational AI literacy skills, they will leverage resources from the emerging ACRL AI Competencies for Librarians, network with peers, and become part of a growing and sustainable community of practice. Sessions include:

• AI and Academic Librarianship: Training on how AI tools can be used to support academic research and library services.
• AI Ethics and Best Practices: Ensuring that participants are equipped to handle ethical considerations when integrating AI into their work.
• Community Building and Train the Trainer Model: Empowering participants to disseminate AI literacy within their institutions.

How We Deliver 

The program includes a hands-on workshop at the 2025 ALA Annual Conference, as well as follow-up activities and webinars designed to support ongoing engagement and knowledge sharing. A key component of the program is the development of an individual plan for implementing AI literacy programs within each participant’s institution.