Instruction
About Library Instruction Services
The Western Illinois University Libraries offer a variety of instructional programs in the use of library resources to support the teaching, learning, and research needs of the Western Illinois University community. With a strong focus on student engagement and learning, librarians work with instructors to develop library instruction that best meets their class needs, fosters critical thinking and literacy, and supports lifelng goals.
These programs help advance the technology and information literacy of students, faculty, and staff through course based and point-of-need research support, course-related web pages, library research assignments, and handouts and guides on course-specific and subject resources.
Teaching in the Library
Reference Desk Instruction
Library instruction takes many forms. Through the Reference Desk library patrons can get help to find books, locate online journals and articles or order Interlibrary Loan materials from another library. You can also get one-on-one research assistance, or Request a High School Visit to learn how to find and use library resources.
Reference librarians also create printable reference guides for using the library and library databses. For more information, contact the reference desk at 298-2700 or Ask-a-Librarian here.
Class Instruction
Many classes require library resources to complete a specific assignment. Library faculty teach information skills that highlight the most effective library research strategies, critical thinking skills, and information literacy for specific disciplines and courses.
Library course-based sessions stress methods for using library tools for research and composition that support class assignments and goals. Instructors can schedule a class session here. Library faculty also teach for-credit courses. Check the STAR Course Search for further information.
Resources
In addition to direct instruction, the library has a number of resources for supporting teaching and learning including:
For Students:
Class Guides
Reference Guides
Interlibrary Loan
Tutorials & Workshops
E-Res (Electronic reserves)
iTunes University
Classroom Calendars (Second Floor) (Third Floor)
Refworks (Bibliography tool)
For Faculty
Faculty Services
Distance Education Resources
Library Resources for Online Courses
Classroom Calendars (Second Floor) (Third Floor)
Refworks (Bibliography tool)
For more information contact:
- Sean Cordes, Instruction Coordinator
- e-mail: CS-Cordes@wiu.edu
- voice: 309/298-2785 (ex. 3)
