What is the library instruction program?

The library instruction program is designed to teach students how to use resources available here while developing information competency skills.  Library instruction sessions give students an opportunity to meet with a librarian, learn the research process and to think critically about resources. 

• Cover Basics
  Allowing the librarian to address a class as a whole should answer the student's research questions, e.g., what sources to use, how to use them, and where to find them. This enables the students to begin research on their own and allows the librarians at the Reference Desk to help students with specific problems as they arise.
• Reduce Fear
  Some students are reluctant to ask for assistance. The library instruction sessions encourage students to meet a "real live" librarian who then describes effective research strategies. Students should also be able to express their information needs more accurately and confidently after participating in an instruction session.   
• Improve Communication
  Communication is improved between students, librarians, and instructors when all get together to discuss ways of gathering information which will satisfy a course assignment. It also helps the librarians determine what additional sources are needed in the library to meet student and faculty needs. 
• Increase Efficiency
  After a library instruction session, students should be able to retrieve information more efficiently and with less frustration. Our aim is to improve the quality of their coursework and to increase their independence in learning.