Library Instruction FAQs

It's the beginning of a new semester. Generally, the workload starts out light; you read a few chapters here, do a few exercises there; but you can be sure that you'll be assigned a research project before long. Often this assignment is coupled with a trip to the Library with your professor and your class, where you receive Library Instruction from a Librarian. As your professor informs your class that you will be attending a Library Instruction session, the following questions race through your mind . . .

Why has Library Instruction been scheduled?
There are many reasons, but the most important of these is that your professor wants to introduce you to the people (Librarians) and place (Library) where you can find information and get help with your research needs.

What should I expect to learn in a Library Instruction session?
Each Library Instruction session is different, because each session is customized to the specific needs of the class for which it is being held.
Generally speaking, a Librarian may demonstrate the different formats of information available in the Library (i.e., books, journal articles, microfilm, etc.); the different tools that are used to search different formats of information (i.e., BLISS (our online catalog,) online databases, periodical indexes, etc.); and the advantages and disadvantages of each format (i.e., when is it more appropriate to use a book than a journal article, etc.) Librarians may also discuss and give practical advice on evaluating information, and how you can ensure that the resources you are using are valid and relevant.

So many Library resources are accessible from home; should I still come into the Library?
Yes.
Although many Library resources are accessible from home via the Library's website, many more are accessible only in the Library. You need to come into the Library to check out a book, use a reference book, view microfilm, or use materials that have been placed on Reserve. The Reference Desk is also an excellent place to get help in finding information - - just ask a Reference Librarian. There are other advantages to coming into the Library. You may meet other students from your classes at the Library. You might want to ask them about your homework assignments, trade ideas about a research project, or just say hello. The Library is a great place to meet people to study, to exchange ideas, or to work together.

I've attended a Library Instruction session before. Do I need to attend another one?
Yes.
There are two important reasons why you should attend a Library Instruction session, even if you've attended one before.
Librarians tailor each Library Instruction session to the class for which it has been requested. Every session is different.
Also, we are continually acquiring new resources and adding new services at the Library. We may have added a new database, or made changes to the services we provide since the last time you attended a Library Instruction session. Library Instruction is a great way to learn about what's new at the Library.

Is there anything I can do to prepare for Library Instruction?
If you've been assigned a research project, take a look at your assignment. Do you have any questions? Have your topic, or any possible topics, and any questions fresh in your mind when you attend Library Instruction. Librarians will be happy to answer your questions, and we often ask for topics to use to demonstrate different research techniques. Volunteering your topic is a great way to get some "free" research tips. (Of course, if we don't use your topic in class, you can always ask a Reference Librarian for some more "free" research tips after class.)

I've never been to a Library Instruction session before, and I want to learn more about the Library. What can I do?

Ask your professors if they are planning to bring your class into the Library for Instruction. They may have planned on doing this, but have not yet informed your class.
Another thing you can do is sign up for an Individual Reference Consultation in the Library. You can sign up for a half-hour or an hour of time with a Reference Librarian. The Librarian can help you find research for a specific assignment, introduce you to Library Resources, or give you a tour of the Library. Each session is customized to the needs of the student requesting it.
An additional way to learn more about Begley is to pick up a copy of A Guide to Begley Library and Instructional Technology Center. This guide is available at Begley Library; please ask a Reference Librarian if you need help locating one.