Research-based Information and Media Literacy Resource Hub Launched
Empowering Informed Communities (EIC), a project of the University of Washington’s Center for an Informed Public (CIP), has released an updated website with research-based media and information literacy resources and tools for public libraries. EIC publishes implementation-ready, patron-facing programs and provides professional development events and materials for library staff. The project partners with OCLC’s WebJunction, experts in public library professional development. WebJunction is helping to refine the project’s resources and produce professional development webinars based on CIP research.
On the EIC website, library practitioners will find a series of “resource packs” focused on media and information literacy that are designed to be approachable, with no previous experience or expertise required. Each resource pack provides an introduction to the topic, ideas on how to approach the topic at their library, and a series of ready-to-use resources. The packs cover a wide range of topics, including the role of AI in everyday life, how emotions impact how we use social media, methods for online fact-checking, and how to use games in media literacy activities. The ready-to-use tools in the packs include handouts, presentations, posters, and game materials.
Importance of media and information literacy
In our rapidly changing information technology ecosystem, people need support to successfully participate in civic life. As trusted institutions in communities across the United States, public libraries are uniquely positioned to play a central role in addressing the informational challenges we all face. In order to do so, libraries need to be connected with the resources, tools and latest research.
Research-based materials
CIP is a multidisciplinary research center that explores how individuals, communities, and institutions navigate complex information environments. Since CIP’s launch in December 2019, the research center has translated research into practical educational tools and resources for non-academic audiences. In 2023, CIP was awarded a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services to adapt these resources for public libraries, create new programs and tools, and provide professional development activities on information and media literacy.
WebJunction webinars
By partnering with WebJunction, the project has been able to produce a series of professional development webinars for public libraries. These webinars cover different topics related to media and information literacy and highlight supporting resources that public libraries can use. Watch for additional webinars from CIP on AI and media literacy on the WebJunction calendar.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services Grant #LG-255047-OLS-23.
