What is the truth?
It’s a question philosophers have debated for generations, but now it has never been harder to tell what is true as misinformation and disinformation are produced and distributed on an industrial scale.
That’s why truth is the focus of Library and Information Week 2026.
Between 27 July – 2 August libraries around Australia will be sharing resources and information to help people recognise and respond to misinformation and disinformation, how it is spread, how to identify it, and how to stay protected from it.
Libraries have a critical role to play in helping the community to tell fact from fiction, but it is a challenge being addressed by governments, the media, and the education system too.
Below is a selection of resources and initiatives drawn from the Australian Library and Information Association to help people of all ages build digital, media and information literacy skills. They are designed both for individuals and educators. It is worth exploring.
Remember, misinformation and disinformation are on the rise. If you see or hear something you’re just not sure about – come to the library and we’ll help you get to the truth of the matter.
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ABC Matter of Facts Media Literacy Workshop: created by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the Australian Library and Information Association, and Western Sydney University, to help build the skills and confidence to recognise false and misleading information online. Inspired by the ABC 3-part documentary series The Matter of Facts presented by award-winning journalist Hamish Macdonald, the workshop explores how information online can shape what we believe, how we act, and even how we vote. See upcoming sessions.
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eFake news and misinformation (eSafety Commissioner): A practical guide from the Australian eSafety Commissioner that helps people identify false or misleading online content, understand how misinformation spreads, and learn simple fact-checking strategies before sharing information online.
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ABC Education Media Literacy Resources: Media Literacy - ABC Education
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Australian Media Literacy Alliance for Educators: Drawing on leading academic research in media literacy and underpinned by the National Media Literacy Framework, explore some of the engaging and innovative media literacy initiatives, training and tools for Australian educators in schools.
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ABC Education and Australian Media Literacy Alliance Media Literacy Summit: This summit brought together researchers, policy makers, educators, and journalists to discuss a range of topics relating to media literacy, including the pressing issue of the impact that mis- and disinformation has upon democratic societies. Watch all sessions.
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State Library Victoria Misinformation research guide. Created in conjunction with the exhibition “Make Believe: Encounters with Misinformation”.
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SquizKids NewsHounds: A free, nine-part, ready-to-teach classroom resource for primary school kids . Complete with accompanying classroom workbook and a comprehensive teacher manual. Designed to make every student an internet detective, and every educator an instant media literacy expert.
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Fact or Fiction? (State Library of Queensland): A free interactive resource for Years 4–7 that helps students evaluate online information, identify misinformation and build critical thinking skills through short challenges and activities.
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eSmart Media Literacy Lab (Alannah and Madeline Foundation): fun, gamified platform empowering students to navigate the media landscape. Free for all Australian schools.
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PressReader has developed a media literacy toolkit for educators
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Addressing Misinformation with Media Literacy Through Cultural Institutions: A research project by WSU, QUT, RMIT and UC in partnership with ALIA, ABC Education, NFSA and MoAD.
Online Resources:
LinkedIn Learning
Learn relevant, professional skills with LinkedIn Learning (previously Lynda.com).
Libby
Download eBooks, eAudiobooks, and digital magazines via the website or Libby app.
BorrowBox
Download eBooks or eAudiobooks via the web or BorrowBox app
PressReader
Access newspapers and magazines via the web or PressReader app.