Describes the dimensions and components of expert systems and their applications in libraries. Discussion of ways in which the productivity of library public services could be improved by using expert systems focuses on reference and bibliographic instruction applications. (four references) (MES)

A search of the literature was conducted to determine the extent to which librarians outside the reference department have been involved in bibliographic instruction (BI). Although few studies were found that address this issue, some of the scant material suggested that non-reference librarians have been linked to BI. (Contains eight references.)…

Presents eight annotations from the ERIC database that offer suggestions about ways teachers and librarians can motivate students to use the library and to develop library skills. (PRA)

Provides summaries of the presentations at the North Carolina Library Association's Biennial Conference, "Choose Quality, Choose Libraries," (Raleigh, NC, October 8-10, 1997). Some of the topics covered include library instruction, Internet access to public documents, outsourcing technical services, copyrights and the Internet, the…

A survey of evaluation practices used to assess the effectiveness of library instruction at 44 colleges and universities found that "reaction data" was used most often, although it provided little evidence of what the students learned. Argues that subjective data alone are inadequate to measure student learning, guide program…

Defines discovery learning and explains five learning architectures, or models, including case-based learning, incidental learning, learning by exploring, learning by reflection, and simulation-based learning. Discusses obstacles in applying discovery learning to library instruction and outlines strategies for overcoming the obstacles. (LRW)

Provides an introduction to this theme issue by reviewing the status of bibliographic instruction, particularly in academic libraries, over the past decade. Topics include criticism, the need for evaluation, practical and theoretical viewpoints, the need for collaboration, the impact of technology, the need to recognize cultural diversity; and…

Considers the need for renewal of library instruction and provides 10 sample assignments. Topics include the reaffirmation of the goals of library instruction; the use of the real world for examples; collaboration with faculty, students, and other librarians; and relevance. (Author/LRW)

Assessing students' information literacy skills can be difficult depending on the involvement of the librarian in a course. To overcome this, librarians created an assignment called the Paper Trail, where students wrote a short essay about their research process and reflected on what they would do differently. Through reviewing and grading these…

The issue of live bibliographic instruction (BI) versus electronic BI is a matter many libraries are facing as more technology becomes available to afford such an option. At the University of Oklahoma Government Documents Collection, a study was administered in March 2001 to determine the relative advantages between these two teaching techniques.…

In developing a Library Orientation Tour, it is important to be perceptive about the needs of a college population. At Queensborough Community College the student population is a mix of traditional and non-traditional students from diversified backgrounds. The initial contact with the Library, and its resources, may be overwhelming for students…

This case study reports on the use of Web-based research portfolios in an information literacy course. It offers a model for teaching research skills in a structured and incremental way that can promote student centered learning and facilitate authentic assessment.

Discusses the incorporation of CD-ROM technology into Georgia State University's William Russell Pullen Library, and considers its impact on reference services and bibliographic instruction. Concludes that technology increases the need for critical thinking skills, faculty-librarian interaction, and human resources for reference and technical…

Describes a high school library orientation program, based on research and writing, that is centered on the curriculum and integrates the subjects of science and English. Discusses class assignments, the library orientation manual and steps in the library instruction process, and writing as an effective learning tool across the curriculum. (AEF)

Twenty-three scholarly papers and twelve abstracts comprise the content of the eleventh annual Brick and Click Libraries Symposium, held at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri. The peer-reviewed proceedings, authored by academic librarians and presented at the symposium, portray the contemporary and future face of…