Instruction

Library Instruction will be scheduled at the request of Faculty. Instruction sessions can be held in the library’s Rare Book Room or any assigned “Smart” classroom. Instruction generally includes information on how to use the library’s print and electronic resources and interlibrary loan.

It is recommended that faculty:

• Schedule library instruction sessions in advance. The library tries to provide instruction on preferred date, but this is not always possible, so please have alternative dates in mind.
• Provide a copy of the class assignment related to the instruction session. This will enable the librarian to focus on the resources that will be most helpful.
• Accompany the class to the library. Students are usually more engaged and likely to attend if their instructor is present.

Request an instruction session by:

• Calling the library @ x2226, ask to speak to a Librarian
• Email the library @ library@wju.edu
• Complete the Instructional Services Request Form

In addition to standard instructional sessions, the library has provided online Research Guides located on our website for each discipline and a tutorial for FYS. If you would like further details, please contact the library.

Reference

Availability

If a librarian is within the library a sign will be posted at the Reference Desk during Fall/Spring Semesters that indicates a librarian is available. The reference desk will not be manned during daytime hours, but if coverage is available will be manned during the evening hours. The library will attempt to provide reference service during the following hours:

• Monday-Thursday à 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM
• Friday à 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM
• Sunday à 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM

It is recommended that during unavailability of reference librarians, students use the “Research Guides” located on the library’s website.

Questions

Reference questions usually fall into the following categories:

• Directional – this is information such as “where is the …, what computers can I use, what is the cost for printing/copying, where are the restrooms, where is the printer, etc.” As per ARL the definition of a “directional transaction is an information contact that facilitates the logistical use of the library and that does not involve the knowledge, use, recommendations, interpretation, or instruction in the use of any information sources other than those that describe the library, such as schedules, floor plans, and handbooks.”
• Computer Instruction – this would be information such as “how do I register for classes in Blackboard, how do I print an Adobe file, how do I save a file, etc.”
• Reference Questions – as per ARL the definition of a reference question is…an information contact that involves the knowledge, use, recommendations, interpretation, or instruction in the use of one or more information sources by a member of the library staff. The term includes information and referral service. Information sources include (a) printed and nonprinted material; (b) machine-readable databases (including computer-assisted instruction); (c) the library's own catalogs and other holdings records; (d) other libraries and institutions through communication or referral; and (e) persons both inside and outside the library. When a staff member uses information gained from previous use of information sources to answer a question, the transaction is reported as a reference transaction even if the source is not consulted again.

Librarians will assist in answering all questions.