Low-Tech Scavenger Hunt Model for Student Orientation

ABSTRACT

Scavenger hunts are an effective, fun way of orienting new students to the library. The low-tech nature and small scale of the scavenger hunt program described here might be more suitable for health sciences libraries than other models, particularly for libraries with small staffs. This model also includes a unique optional element useful for library marketing. This article describes the methods used, shares reactions of program participants, and provides suggestions for those considering orienting students in this way.

KEYWORDS:

• Allied health students
• health professions
• library marketing
• library orientations
• library tours
• scavenger hunts

Acknowledgments

The authors thank Robert Ladd, MA, for his work as “I Love My HSL” blog moderator for the scavenger hunts and the User Services support staff and student employees for their help making new students welcome and building their confidence in using the Health Sciences Library.

Notes on Contributors

Barbara Rochen Renner, PhD ([email protected]) is Library Services Evaluation Specialist and Liaison, Allied Health Sciences and Adjunct Professor, Allied Health Sciences, School of Medicine; Elizabeth Cahoon, MA, MLS ([email protected]) is Information Associate and Support Services Staff Manager; and Francesca Allegri, MSLS ([email protected]) is Assistant Director (Interim) and Head of User Services; all at Health Sciences Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 335 S. Columbia Street, Campus Box 7585, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7585.