Library Instruction Services
- Library Instruction Request Form
- Information For Visiting High Schools
- 2009 Student Survey Form
- 2009 Faculty Evaluation of Library Instruction Form
Statement of Purpose
As a service of the Reference Department at the Melvin J. Zahnow Library Saginaw Valley State University, the library instruction sessions strive to enhance the learner's ability to find, evaluate, and use knowledge effectively and efficiently, which is made available through a variety of formats, tools, and modes of access. Through guided visual demonstrations, lectures, workshops, orientations, and interactive "hands-on" sessions, students learn to develop and effectively apply proficient library research strategies to retrieve assignment-specific print and/or electronic information resources, in order to successfully complete course assignments.
Instruction Session Options
Library Instruction primarily services Saginaw Valley State University's students and faculty. However, we welcome and invite local-area high schools to schedule a research skills class focused on a junior-senior level high school research assignment. Please contact me and I will be happy to customize a session to meet your specific needs. For more information,contact Kathleen Kroll, Reference & Instruction Librarian, at kmkroll(at)svsu.eduor at 989.964.7054.
Off-Campus Instruction
For Off-Campus instruction sessions and Internet Instruction (College Success Classes), please contact Scott Mellendorf, Reference/Internet, & Off-Campus Services Librarian at mel(at)svsu.edu or at 989.964.7052.
Scheduling Requirements
- At least two-weeks advance scheduling is needed for adequate collaboration with the requesting faculty member and efficient preparation and planning for the librarian instructor.
- Effective library instruction sessions require at least one 75-minute class session; however, librarians are flexible and will adjust to the specific needs of your course assignment.
- An online request form is provided for your convenience or contact: Kathleen Kroll, Reference and Instruction Librarian, at ext. 7054 or email kmkroll(at)svsu.edu for details or to schedule a session.
FAQs
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WHERE is Library Instruction offered?
- Most sessions take place in the library's pc lab, Z-111, located on the first floor of Zahnow Library.
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WHEN is Library Instruction available?
- Library Instruction is available at any time during the semester. At least one to two weeks advanced notice is required to schedule a session.
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WHY is Library Instruction important?
- Library Instruction is important for many reasons. Library Instruction teaches students how to use library resources and materials more effectively. Library Instruction helps students learn research strategies to aid in the completion of course assignments. Library Instruction also reduces anxiety often associated with library research.
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HOW do I schedule Library Instruction for my class?
- It's easy! Contact Kathleen Kroll, Reference and Instruction Librarian, at ext. 7054 or email kmkroll(at)svsu.edu or fill out an online request form today.
Creating Successful Library Assignments
- Design an assignment with course objectives in mind. Students will benefit more if the assignment is related tocourse content.
- Consult a Reference Librarian. The Reference & Instruction Librarian is happy to assist with designing an assignment. It is possible to customize the assignment to specific resources relating to class content. More general research assignments are available (both basic and advanced) that can be used for various topics and resources.
- Make sure the library owns the needed information. It is imperative to check the library holdings for specific materials needed to complete the assignment. Take advantage of Zahnow Library's Course Reserve service. If possible, send a copy of the assignment to the Reference & Instruction Librarian before giving it to your students. Resources and materials will be investigated and suggestions will be made where necessary.
- Avoid scavenger hunts. Assignments which send students on wild goose chases result in frustration and often misplacement or mutilation of library materials. Furthermore, these types of assignments do little for improving the research strategy. Assignments that have a purpose, especially those relating to class content, benefit students more by familiarizing them with a research strategy and the various types of resources available.
Contact Information
Contact: Kathleen Kroll, Reference & Instruction Librarian / 989.964.7054 / kmkroll@svsu.edu