[Publib] Information Literacy

Tue May 2 11:41:24 EDT 2006

Public libraries start information literacy with toddlers!   Storytimes
include bibliographic instruction.  
School classes come for class tours in conjunction with assignments, so
they get bibliographic instruction.
We host GED classes here that include b.i. (presented by library staff).

I agree with Kathy.  I think that many adults are hesitant/embarrassed
to admit that they don't know as much as they think they should about
the way that libraries are arranged.  They think it's something they
ought to remember from their school days.   They have limited time so
they want to get the information and go.

One way to gently teach some information literacy to out-of-school
adults is to present programs for community groups.  Not only service
clubs but also church circles, parents' groups, etc.  You could invite
them to hold one of their meetings at the library.  If you go to where
they meet your instruction may be limited to what you can demonstrate
online (this means they'll need to meet where you can set up a computer)
-- but you could also bring a book and explain what/where the call
number is, what the barcode is, show the CIP and explain the elements of
a bibliographic record.  (People often don't know what you mean by "the
number on the spine of the book," or they read the ISBN when you ask for
the barcode.)

I created a flyer titled "Deciphering the Dewey Decimal Classification"
that summarizes the Dewey hundreds: 
"000, Generalities -- what you'll find:  encyclopedias, journalism,
magazines, computer software"    
I no longer have the Word document on file, but you all know how DDC
works!

Nann
@the library in Zion, Illinois

________________________________

From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Kathryn Bloomberg -
Rissman
Sent: Tuesday, May 02, 2006 9:22 AM
To: jess macleod; publib at webjunction.org
Subject: RE: [Publib] Information Literacy

I've found that in the public library setting, many people are not
interested in learning how to find books, etc.  They come to the library
to get books and/or information.  When my father's library automated, he
stopped going until I convinced him that all he had to do was ask at the
reference desk and someone would assist him.  He had no desire to learn
to use a computer. 

Here we have lots of patrons interested and willing to learn, but I
don't think many or even any would be interested in taking a class.
Whenever I'm searching for a patron and they are standing in front of
me, I do a running commentary on what I'm doing and turn the monitor so
they can follow along.  If the patron seems interested I'll also go to
the OPAC with them and let them search while I "assist".

Now you have me wondering about BI classes.  My reaction is they
wouldn't work, but I'll be interested in seeing any responses indicating
otherwise.

Kathy Bloomberg-Rissman

Director

Upland Public Library

Upland, CA

________________________________

From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of jess macleod
Sent: Tuesday, May 02, 2006 4:09 AM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] Information Literacy

I believe that information literacy standards are expected in the
academic libraries, but I have witnessed little action in the public
libraries. Basic retrieval seems to be customary, with no complaints
from both patron and librarian. My question...Should the public library
step it up in this age of information explosion?

Perhaps public libraries do practice bibliographic instruction and
follow information literacy standards, but I have not seen it. Does
anyone offer open session classes in basic library research skills? Are
public librarians against bibliographic instruction? Please pardon my
naivete, and cure my curiosity.Thanks.

Jessica MacLeod

Floral Park Public Library

________________________________

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