Library research instruction sessions for particular classes may be scheduled in any of the four libraries. These sessions are usually scheduled by faculty for their classes; however, students who see the need for large group instruction may also request such a session. The librarian who leads the session will explain strategies for constructing effective searches using various reference tools, both traditional and electronic, and show students how to interpret and evaluate their search results. In Honnold/Mudd we usually teach in our state-of-the-art hands-on Learning Room where everyone can see search strategies demonstrated practice searching relevant databases.

Library research instruction sessions are tailored to meet the needs of the class. If the class is reading or working on an assignment with a particular focus, the librarian will gear examples to that focus. When you schedule a session, the librarian who will teach the class will meet with you prior to the session to plan what should be covered. Together you may decide to focus on a single database (e.g., PsycLit for a psychology class), a variety of databases (e.g., Blais, Wilson Humanities Index and the MLA Bibliography for a humanities seminar), a combination of paper and electronic resources, or whatever library and information resources you and the librarian determine will be most useful.

To schedule a library research instruction session for your class, contact Gale Burrow (ext. 73987), who is the Coordinator of Library Instruction, or the Subject Specialist for your discipline.