Information Literacy Program

Objectives

The Library at Broome Community College draws on guidelines established by the Association of College and Research Libraries entitled, "Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education" for the administration of its information literacy program. Information literacy includes the ability to perform basic operations of personal computer use; to understand and use basic research techniques; to locate, evaluate, and synthesize information from a variety of sources. The overall goal is to support the college curriculum and to encourage lifelong learning in our students. This includes support of traditional classroom instruction and distance learning classes.

Modes of Instruction

Course-related Instruction and Library Tours

Library instruction is incorporated into class content and objectives, with the exception of general library tours. Librarians work with classroom faculty and staff to infuse information literacy into the curriculum. Classes provide a student-centered learning environment. They are usually taught in the library's computer lab classroom in order to provide hands-on learning.

Faculty and Staff Workshops

Librarians offer workshops on the latest databases and other information for faculty and staff through the Teaching Resource Center. Check the Focus and campus e-mail for dates and times of workshops.

Subject Guides

Liaison Librarians create pathfinders (subject guides) and bibliographies in their specialized subject area. The print guides are located in the Reference area of the Library and can also be found on the library homepage under Research Guides.

Scheduling Classes

To Schedule a Library Class or Tour

Library instruction is offered throughout the semester by appointment. Contact either Debbie Spanfelner, Coordinator for Library and Information Literacy Instruction (ext. 5239) or the Librarian that you are used to working with at least a week in advance to schedule a tour or a library class. We ask that you schedule ahead in order to give librarians enough time to prepare a worthwhile presentation for your students and to avoid scheduling problems. Tools for assessment may include the classroom assignment, an exercise created to reinforce the concepts taught in class, or any other tool deemed appropriate. Instructors are requested to accompany their classes to the library.

Bringing Classes to the Library for Research

Instructors who wish to have their students conduct research in the library during class time are required to set up a date and time with the librarians.

Class Assignments

When assigning students a library-related project, you may wish to check with the Reference librarians to make certain that the library contains adequate materials to support the assignment. If possible, please forward a copy of the research assignment to the Reference Desk.