The fact is that even students who have had a general orientation to the library are often unfamiliar with specialized research tools and resources, especially when working on assignments in unfamiliar disciplines. Experience shows that in today's ever-changing research environment, time invested in learning to use the library and its resources is time well spent. The goal of the library instruction program is to help students develop the skills to locate and evaluate the information they need, using the library collection, electronic resources, interlibrary loan, and the Internet. Librarians are happy to conduct a session for any beginning or advanced-level course. Timing is important.
Students are more motivated when their research assignments and library instruction coincide.
Students benefit more from library instruction when they have a clear understanding of their course research assignment beforehand. Faculty participation reinforces the session's connection to a course and the assignment. Hands-on practice is available.