Faculty Library Instruction FAQ's

 

What is library instruction?
Library instruction includes a range of resources and services aimed at assisting students, faculty, and staff in locating, assessing and using information for research and lifelong learning. CBU offers orientation sessions and library tours, instruction in the use of the library and its resources, one-on-one consultations, and faculty/staff training.

Instructors often request sessions that combine demonstration of library materials use with hands-on searching, during which students find relevant material. Library instruction sessions may focus on a variety of topics related to research and information skills. You may work with the library instructor to design a session that will best meet your students' needs and address the goals and objectives of your course.

Who can request library instruction?
Any faculty member or course instructor may request an instruction session.

Who provides library instruction?
Library instruction sessions are taught by librarians at CBU. All librarians are qualified with Master's degrees to teach sessions for courses that involve a general introduction to resources and research strategies, and can work with you to design subject-specific instruction for groups which are more advanced.

When is the best time to schedule library instruction during the semester?
Library instruction can occur at any time, but it is sometimes best to schedule classes when students are already working on a research project, and have a clear idea of what their assignment requires. It is also helpful to schedule an instruction session at a time when you can attend the class and participate.

How many classes do I need to schedule?
Library instruction sessions might be one-period, very brief introductions to library resources, or you may to integrate library instruction throughout the semester. It might be helpful to arrange an initial, introductory session and then a follow-up as students are progressing with their research.

How do I schedule a session?
You can schedule a session in one of three ways:
(1) call the Instruction Librarian, Benjamin Head at 321-3455;
(2) e-mail the Instruction Librarian at bhead@cbu.edu;
or (3) fill out the Instruction Session Request Form online.

It is best to request a session about two weeks ahead of time so we can assign a librarian and adequately prepare for the class.

Where are library instruction classes held?
For classes that have a hands-on component, the library's Infolab on the lower level is equipped with 14 workstations and an NEC overhead projector. We are also available to come to your classroom or office.

How should I prepare for the library instruction class?
It is important that you communicate with the teaching librarian prior to the class so that instruction can be customized as much as possible. The librarian needs to know about the nature of the assignment, possible research topics, the skill levels of the students, and any particular resources or topics that you would like us to cover in depth.