A Case Study of Public Libraries in Ghana: Equipping Students with Critical Information Literacy Skills in the Age of AI and Misinformation

Abstract

Drawing on the practical experience of the “Digital Learning @ Ghana Public Libraries” project, this paper showcases how, despite their limited access to digital devices and connectivity, public libraries in Ghana successfully incorporated misinformation and AI literacy training into their digital and information literacy programmes for high school students. From 2024 to 2026, a partnership between the Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) and EIFL (Electronic Information for Libraries) implemented a project that reached over 22,100 students aged 12-18 through school outreach activities and in-library digital learning workshops at fifteen public libraries.

The project built the capacity of public library staff, equipping 30 regional and district librarians and ICT coordinators (digital learning facilitators) with the necessary skills, confidence, and resources to create effective learning experiences that differ from and supplement formal education. From the beginning, the project has focused on a hands-on, interactive, game-based learning approach in public libraries' information literacy programs. Instead of creating new resources, the project has adapted existing open educational resources for the target audience.

Initially, the libraries focused on providing practical digital and information literacy skills. Their educational ambitions evolved in response to the emerging challenges of misinformation and AI-generated content. For example, the EIFL compiled a training resource titled “Smart Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).” Consequently, Ghanaian public libraries have expanded their information literacy programs to include an early understanding of misinformation and the ability to use AI while recognizing its potential risks. Post-training surveys of young learners, as well as feedback from library trainers, revealed that students demonstrated improved ability to assess the credibility of information, more responsible information sharing, and better search and research skills.