Information Literacy Showcase

This was my favorite workshop so far, this conference. Information Literacy according to the Online Dictionary for Library and Information Science, means, "Skill in finding the information one needs, including an understanding of how libraries are organized, familiarity with the resources they provide (including information formats and automated search tools), and knowledge of commonly used research techniques. The concept also includes the skills required to critically evaluate information content and employ it effectively, as well as an understanding of the technological infrastructure on which information transmission is based, including its social, political, and cultural context and impact."
For years, information literacy has been associated with academic libraries, only, but in reality it's something that all librarians should be prepared to teach. This panel consisted of a public reference librarian, a YA librarian, an elementary school librarian, and an academic librarian.
Matthew, the reference librarian from the Springfield Public Library, mentioned that there is a larger need to be proactive in teaching information literacy. While librarians used to teach information literacy 1:1 on an informal level. The librarians at his library now teach several computer type courses from basic computer classes to classes for high end databases. The name of the program is Hi!Tech @ the Library. Classes that the librarians teach include Computer Basics, Learn to Type, Internet 101, Introduction to Word Processing and Microsoft Word, Manage your Files, Great Websites You Haven't Seen Yet, Local News (using the Internet), Vote Savvy with the Internet, Excel with Spreadsheets, Database Design with Microsoft Access, and Next Reads (which teaches Readers' Advisory tools online including some subscription databases). I was especially intrigued by classes such as Local News and Vote Savvy with the Internet, which not only teaches patrons how to better search online but to be better information consumers. It also gives me something to think about if an when our lovely volunteers can't teach here anymore. Not only does this help patrons improve their information literacy skills, it also helps the librarians. Furthermore, as Matthew pointed out, it's great PR for the library.
The next speaker was Dan, a YA Librarian from Shrewsbury. He mentioned how certain YA programs can be entertaining as well as teach information literacy skills in a subtle manner. (They're also great tools for brining YA's into the library). For example, the library runs a scavenger hunt which requires the YA's to use online databases to find some of the answers. There is also a cooking contest which requires the YA's to find cookbooks in the library which, in turn, teaches OPAC skills. The library also holds a YA writing competion which is held in the same manner as American Idol. In order to vote, the YA's are required to use the library blog and website. The teen advisory board also has a branch who orders Manga and are required to use the OPAC in order to do it.
Julie, the elementary school librarian, emphasized that information literacy begins in kindergarten. She discussed great ways in order to emphasize the difference between fiction and non-fiction. (using songs, word plays, etc.). She also said that pictures are ways for early readers to learn information literacy. Older children are taught to use the catalog when doing projects for school.
Sarah Marks from Fitchburg State discussed Information Literacy at her library. She learned where her students were (on Facebook, youtube, Google, and Wikipedia. They are not on Twitter or Blogs). She emphasized the benefits of wikis, saying that it's the way of the future, and also talked about the virtues of Wikipedia. (personally I feel when used correctly, that it represents everything that is right about the Internet). She mentioned something called libguides which according to their website, offer, "General subject guides, Course guides to support faculty instruction, 'How to' guides related to various library services, Teaching library instruction and information literacy, Collaboration with faculty on research and teaching. Library Website, Staff collaboration/communication" Here is an example of Fitchburg State's History Libguide.