Resources For Faculty
Tips for a Successful Library Instruction Session
There are many ways for students to learn about using the UT Libraries. A couple of ways include attending Library Workshops and completing a Tour or Tutorial. For advanced and subject specific topics a library instruction session might be a valuable addition to your course. The following tips outline how to plan your session and prepare your students so that they will get the most from the session.
Planning the session
- Plan to integrate the concepts taught in the library session into a class assignment or project. The immediate application of new concepts reinforces what students learn during the library session.
- To aid your library instructor’s preparations for your library session, send a copy of the assignment and your class syllabus. This helps the librarian to better customize the session and even provide you with feedback on the library related aspects of the assignment.
- Library classrooms and instructors are very busy at the beginning of each semester, so schedule your session as early as possible. To schedule a session contact your subject librarian or use the Library Instruction Request Form.
Not sure how to integrate the session into an assignment? Ask a librarian – they often have creative ideas and are happy to discuss assignment ideas with you. Contact your subject librarian or Kristen Bullard if you have questions or want to discuss assignment ideas.
Librarians can come to your classroom if you teach in a technology enhanced space where we can connect to the internet.
Preparing your students
- Students with a topic already selected typically benefit more from the session. By selecting a topic beforehand, students often leave the session with resources, ready to utilize them in class assignments/projects.
- Library sessions covering advanced topics are more effective if the students are familiar with the basics of using the UT Libraries. If some of your students seem unfamiliar with the basics, suggest that they attend a Library Workshop or complete a Tour or Tutorial.
Attending the session
- Make sure the students know where to meet and that the session will start at the specified time. Meeting at your regular room prior to the session and then walking over together takes a lot of time away from the library-related content. Library instructors are always willing to let instructors make announcements before and/or after the session.
- Instructors should plan to attend the library instruction sessions with their classes. Instructor attendance helps clarify assignment related questions, increases attendance, emphasizes the importance of these sessions, and shows respect for the library instructor.
- Food and drink are not permitted in the library classrooms.
Following the session
- Discuss the library session with the class and follow-up on the library related aspects of the assignment.
- Encouraging students to contact the librarian or AskUsNow! if they have questions or problems finding materials.
- Provide feedback to the librarian about the session; this helps in planning future sessions.
- Post links to resources, AskUsNow! and other library resources on the class Blackboard site.