Why Library Instruction?
Library instruction is an excellent way to acquaint students with conducting research
effectively and efficiently using the various types of print and electronic research
tools found in the modern library. Our librarians can provide an instructional session
for classes which can include a guided tour, a discussion of research strategies, an
introduction to library resources and research tools, demonstrations of CD-ROM and online
database searching, and the use of Internet search engines for information retrieval.
Faculty can also arrange to have a librarian provide an instruction specifically designed
to meet the research needs of their students.
Scheduling
To arrange a session, instructors should contact a librarian using one the following methods:
(a) stopping by the library and asking for a reference librarian, (b) call the reference desk
or (c) contact a librarian by e-mail (see liaisons for contact information). When making a
query please include the following information:
- Date and time of class
- Number of students
- Type of class (English, Psychology, etc.)
- Type of assignment being given to students
- Type of instruction requested
- Your name and contact information
Types of Classes
Library instruction is available on the following topics:
- Library overview - general overview of library resources and services, very brief introduction to Alleycat and Ebscohost.
- Using Alleycat, the library's catalog for determining what books, periodical titles, and audiovisual resources are available at the different CCAC campus libraries.
- Using subscription database services such as Ebscohost and FirstSearch to locate periodical literature including newspaper, magazine, and journal articles.
- Using Web-based subject directories and search engines to locate information on the Internet.
- Customized instruction is available to:
- (a) Meet specific research objectives (e.g., research for biographical papers on notable African Americans, research for papers on literary criticism, etc.). A librarian can discuss a research assignment with an instructor to determine which library resources would be most useful for the students and prepare a presentation focusing on these resources.
- (b) Provide training in the use of specific print or electronic research tools (e.g., CINAHL, Ebscohost, Contemporary Literary Criticism, Current Biography, etc).