University of north texas, department of information science, college of information, will create a cohort-based forum that will strengthen academic librarians' capacity to conduct research on…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded the University of North Texas $363,558 on September 1, 2026, under the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (CFDA 45.313) to create a six-month cohort-based mentoring program that strengthens academic librarians' capacity to conduct research on artificial intelligence literacy, responsible AI use, and AI workforce development.

The University of North Texas Department of Information Science will operate the program through virtual mentorship meetings and monthly tutorials, culminating in an in-person symposium at the Denton, Texas campus. Participating librarians will work with experienced researchers to develop, execute, and disseminate original research projects. Research themes include AI literacy and responsible AI use; AI roles for libraries and librarians; cybersecurity principles for AI; AI in digital scholarship; and preparing future professionals for the AI workforce. Expected outcomes include peer-reviewed publications, grant proposals, and AI research applications that strengthen AI literacy and workforce readiness.

The period of performance runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2028. Performance takes place in Denton, Texas.

University of north texas, department of information science, college of information, will create a cohort-based forum that will strengthen academic librarians' capacity to conduct research on artificial intelligence (AI) literacy, responsible AI use, and AI workforce development. Librarians will participate in a six-month mentoring program combining virtual mentorship meetings and monthly tutorials, culminating in an in-person symposium at the university of north texas campus. Participants will work with experienced researchers to develop, execute, and disseminate original research projects. Expected outcomes include peer-reviewed publications, grant proposals, and AI research applications strengthening AI literacy and workforce readiness. Research themes of the project include AI literacy and responsible AI use; AI roles for libraries and librarians cybersecurity principles for AI; AI in digital scholarship; and preparing future professionals for the AI workforce.