Library Instruction

The University Libraries not only provide access to numerous information resources, we also offer instruction in developing the skills needed to locate, analyze, and evaluate that information. Through course-related library instruction, librarians foster the life-long learning skills in students that will empower them to be critical thinkers, confident decision-makers, and informed citizens.

When the goals of a course involve a library research assignment, classroom faculty are encouraged to schedule a library instruction session. Please contact Fu Zhuo for assistance in designing an effective library research assignment or revising a past assignment to incorporate new resources and technologies.

Library instruction sessions are designed to introduce students to the research skills needed to complete a specific assignment, as well as provide the basic knowledge to recognize when information is needed, how to locate it, and how to use it. In addition to explaining the purpose and use of various resources, both print and online, librarians help students formulate a research strategy, recognize authoritative resources, and cite information properly. Library instruction takes place in a fully-integrated, multi-media lab to allow for a hands-on, active learning experience.

A successful library instruction session depends upon several factors, including:

• Sufficient time (at least two weeks) to schedule and prepare for the session
• A course-related assignment that requires library research
• A collaborative, communicative partnership between librarians and classroom faculty
• The attendance of all students, as well as the faculty member, at the session

To schedule library instruction, call Fu Zhuo, Library Instruction Coordinator (Reference Department, Miller Nichols Library) at (816) 235-1541, Sue Sykes Berry, Library Instruction Librarian (Health Sciences Library) at (816) 235-1874, or the Subject Specialist Librarian assigned to work with your department or school. You can also use the Electronic Library Instruction Request Form to contact the Library Instruction Librarian. Remember that our facilities can accommodate classes with a maximum population of 30. If you have classes that are larger than 30, please consider scheduling more than one library instruction session.