What happens in a Library Instruction class?

Classes are taught by Buley Library Faculty Librarians and are designed to acquaint students with research strategies and in the use of specific library resources, including monographs, periodicals, databases, microforms, Internet resources, and other materials needed for course work and research. The librarian works with the instructor to plan lectures and demonstrations for one or more presentations. Hands-on computer exercises can be arranged to give students practice in searching.

What does an instruction session include?

Lectures and group discussions on subject-specific resources
Finding books and articles for assignments
Research strategies for writing papers and library projects
On-line database demonstrations
Hands-on sessions in the Library
Evaluation of sources
Library instruction sessions may or may not also include a Library Tour.

Is Library Instruction necessary for my class?

Some faculty may feel that library instruction is something provided for within College Writing courses and that it is not necessary beyond that. In today's rapidly changing world of technology, the need for library instruction increases every day. If you can answer yes to any of the following questions, then you might consider incorporating a library instruction session into your course.

Do you give assignments that include using library resources?
Do you have new students who don't have any idea where the library is or what it has to offer?
Do you have some seniors who know very little about doing research?
Do you have students telling you that they cannot find anything on their topic?

Contact a Subject Specialist librarian for more information about what could be covered for a particular course or assignment.

Scheduling

To arrange a class, faculty should complete a request form or call the Reference Desk, at 392-5732. Classes are scheduled on a first come-first serve basis with at least two weeks advance notice. All instruction sessions are scheduled following the library guidelines and policies. Most library classes will be held in the Library Computer Classroom, Buley 211, but arrangements can be made for the librarian to visit your "Smart Classroom" for database searching demonstrations.

Conduct of Group:

Groups are expected to be punctual and to behave in a manner suitable both to a library and to an instructional session. Classroom teachers are responsible for the conduct of their students and are requested to accompany their class to facilitate the effectiveness of the session.

Rebecca Hedreen

ABOUT BULEY