One of the Library's goals is to create information literate students who can negotiate today's information-rich environment. One method we use to reach this goal is through formal instruction sessions, which help students feel more comfortable using the Library and asking questions at the Information Desk.

Because the librarians work daily with the Library's collections and Web resources, we encourage faculty to contact us for assistance as they are creating assignments which require library use and information gathering through such vehicles as the World Wide Web or periodical databases. We advocate course-related, assignment-specific instruction delivered to students as they begin to work on a specific assignment.  Good assignments are well-constructed and are not considered busy-work by students.  For additional information, also see Assignment Ideas, which includes Creating Great Assignments: Tips for Faculty from Cal State at Chico.

We strongly recommend that your students complete LILT (Library Information Literacy Tutorial) prior to attending an instruction session with a librarian. LILT has been incorporated into APSU 1000 classes beginning with Fall 2004.  We depend on you to make sure upperclass students complete LILT to familiarize them with basic information literacy concepts.  This is important because all library instruction will build upon concepts learned in LILT.  Librarians work with you to prepare instruction that specifically addresses information literacy concepts directly related to the assignments at hand.  Our goal is to help students master information literacy skills that will enable them to successfully complete assignments.

If you are interested in arranging for a library instruction session for your class, please fill out the form below at least two weeks prior to the date your class needs instruction. Every effort will be made to schedule a session on or near the dates you prefer.  A librarian will contact you to confirm the date for your instruction session and clarify any questions. A typical instruction session lasts 30-45 minutes with the last few minutes of class spent in hands-on work by students. The number of sessions and session lengths will vary according to how many resources are to be covered. 

For questions or more information, contact Lori Buchanan, Library Instructional Services Coordinator and Instruction Librarian, at buchananl or x7741.