User-Centered Design for First-Year Library Instruction Programs

Book excerpt: Tap into the tools, techniques, and resources necessary for enhancing the freshman library experience by utilizing this how-to guide that applies an innovative approach to literacy and library instruction for college freshmen. In recent years, educators have begun to realize the importance of learner-centered programs as pivotal in the academic success of students transitioning from high school to college. This practical guide provides you with detailed plans for designing user-centered literacy and library instruction in your higher education institution—regardless of size. The handbook covers a vast range of learning situations, technologies, and assessment strategies to suit most any environment. Written by seasoned information literacy and instruction librarians, this book addresses the challenges frequently encountered in library-based programs, including staffing deficits, faculty support, effective advocacy of program to campus constituents, and professional burn-out. Real-life examples from a variety of institutions illustrate successful methods for handling spacing, programming, curriculum design, outreach, training, and assessment, among other areas. Included worksheets, handouts, and further readings give you everything you need to create, grow, and sustain a user-based library instruction program.