Where Does It Fit In? The Use of Print Reference in Upper Division Library Instruction

Abstract

The purpose of this research study is to identify whether academic librarians teach upper-division students about print reference resources, and how they teach students to use them. Questionnaires were sent to library instruction and reference services e-mail discussion lists. After analyzing results, researchers found that responses focused on the themes of pro-print, pro-electronic, relevance to instruction, collection development, and marketing. Using print reference in library instruction is related to the type of research assignment and electronic format availability. Librarians may want to consider engaging students in hands-on use of print and electronic reference material, so students are able to navigate the breadth of information sources.

KEYWORDS:

• library instruction
• information literacy
• collection development
• reference
• upper division students

Notes

Students in these courses are mainly first semester students with no academic library experience.