Northeastern State University Libraries

The instructional component of the Reference Services Department supports the department’s mission by instructing and assisting patrons in the location, use, and evaluation of information sources.  The instruction librarians teach information literacy skills by providing sequenced instruction in all formats for classes with an emphasis on providing specific instruction for students in their majors.  The focus of the instruction program is to serve the NSU community.

What is included in Instruction?

Basic introductory information is provided to the College Strategies students. English 1213 students receive assignment- specific instruction, including information literacy concepts.  Students in upper division, graduate, and professional programs are instructed in the tools of their field as well as assignment-specific resources.  

Where is instruction conducted?

Library instruction includes formal classes taught in the library’s electronic classrooms, classes taught outside of the library, small group sessions, instructional Web pages, distance education classes, tutorials, workshops, one-on-one sessions, and presentations.

Hours of Service:

Classes are taught during their normal class period and based on the availability of the instruction librarian.

Who provides Instruction?

Most library instruction is provided by the subject librarians.  However, classes may be taught by other librarians as well as staff under the direction of a librarian.  Some non-NSU classes are scheduled and taught by User Services personnel.  These may include public school classes, scouting groups, etc.

Whom we serve:

Instruction is provided for any Northeastern State University faculty or staff member. 

Priority of service:

Classes are taught by the subject librarian on a first-come-first-serve basis and as his/her schedule allows.  Priority for use of the facilities goes to Northeastern State University students.

Statistics:

Classes will be recorded on the appropriate online Reservation Calendars and also on the monthly subject librarian statistical reports.

Professional Standards:

Librarians will refer to the “Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education” created by ACRL ; the Competencies for Lifelong Learning and Professional Success:  The Educational Policy Statement of the Medical Library Association;  the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education ACOE, Standard VII, 7.2; the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission NLNAC, Baccalaureate, Standards 4 and 5; and the American Speech Language Hearing Association, Council for Clinical Certification, CCC III-F.

Who oversees instruction?

The NSU instruction component of the Reference Services Department is overseen by the Directors of the Department.

Prepared by Sarah Brick Archer
Approved by the Department on November 20, 2009.