Community Forum to Examine Truth and Misinformation

In an era where digital information spreads faster than ever before, Parkes Shire residents will have an opportunity to sharpen their critical thinking skills through an upcoming workshop focused on navigating today’s complex information landscape.

The Parkes Shire Library will host a “Matter of Facts” workshop on Wednesday, May 13 at 10am, designed to help community members better understand misinformation, disinformation, and how emerging technologies influence the information we consume daily.

Based on the ABC TV docuseries of the same name hosted by journalist Hamish Macdonald, the workshop addresses a fundamental question increasingly relevant in our digital age: “What happens if we lose our faith in facts?”

The initiative comes at a critical time when social media algorithms, artificial intelligence, and rapid information sharing have made distinguishing truth from falsehood increasingly challenging for many people across all demographics.

Tracy Dawson, Information Services Team Leader at Parkes Shire Library, emphasized that misinformation concerns extend beyond major urban centers to affect smaller communities as well.

“Even in a small community like the Parkes Shire, misinformation and disinformation can cause divisions,” Dawson explained. “It’s really important that everyone, no matter what age, is able to critically assess whether the information they receive is true and accurate.”

The workshop will delve into three significant areas shaping contemporary information consumption: the influence of Big Tech companies, the spread of mis- and disinformation, and the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in content creation and distribution.

Participants will gain practical tools to evaluate information critically while engaging in discussions about how the spread of false information impacts individuals, community cohesion, and democratic processes. The program promises a balanced approach to these sometimes politically charged topics, creating space for thoughtful conversation in a supportive environment.

This initiative reflects a growing trend among public libraries nationwide to expand their traditional role beyond simply providing access to information. Many libraries now actively help patrons develop media literacy skills essential for navigating today’s digital information ecosystem.

The timing is particularly relevant as Australia continues to grapple with policy responses to misinformation. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has been developing a misinformation and disinformation code of practice for digital platforms, recognizing the societal harm that can result when false information proliferates unchecked.

Regional communities like Parkes Shire can be particularly vulnerable to misinformation, with fewer local news sources and sometimes limited digital literacy resources compared to metropolitan areas. Programs like the Matter of Facts workshop help bridge this gap, strengthening community resilience against harmful or misleading content.

The workshop aligns with core public library values of promoting informed citizenship and supporting community wellbeing through access to reliable information—principles that have become increasingly crucial in the digital age.

Residents interested in attending the May 13 workshop can secure their place by calling the Parkes Shire Library at (02) 6861 2309 or booking online via Humanitix. Morning tea will be provided, creating an opportunity for continued discussion in an informal setting.

As communities worldwide navigate the challenges of information reliability in the digital age, initiatives like this workshop represent important steps toward building more informed, resilient, and cohesive communities equipped to distinguish fact from fiction in an increasingly complex information landscape.