About Library Instruction
Cal State LA librarians offer course-tailored information literacy sessions to work with your students on research skills and critical analysis. The library instruction program supports the teaching, learning, and research goals of the campus community. Faculty librarians design learner-centered sessions using the ACRL Framework for Information Literacy in Higher Education to empower students to think critically about information. Our goal is to embed information literacy concepts throughout the curriculum.
Types of Instruction
We offer instruction in two library classrooms or in your regular classroom using active learning strategies.
Topics for instruction sessions can include:
- Developing effective search strategies (selecting a topic, brainstorming keywords, navigating library databases)
- Tracing scholarly conversations, understanding citation practices
- Analyzing authority in information sources, identifying multiple perspectives
- Developing literature reviews and synthesizing information
Synchronous Instruction
- Librarians can join Zoom class or host a Zoom session during your scheduled class time.
- Targeted research consultations
Asynchronous Instruction
- We can support your class through:
- Embedded modules on Canvas
- Video tutorials
- Discussion board support
- Please allow ample planning time for asynchronous support.
Our Special Collections librarian can lead workshops tailored to your course, including:
- Handling rare materials
- Finding and analyzing primary sources
- Archival research methods
Looking to integrate research and information literacy more deeply into your course?
We can collaborate with you to:
- Design or revise assignments
- Develop in-class activities or workshops
- Embed tutorials or learning objects in Canvas modules
Guidelines for Productive Collaborations
To ensure the most effective learning experience, we ask that faculty follow these guidelines:
- Request at least two weeks in advance
- Librarian schedules fill quickly, and early requests allow for a more customized session.
- Faculty must attend the session
- Students are more engaged when their instructor is present and participating.
- Schedule instruction near the research assignment
- Sessions are more impactful when timed with students’ real information needs.
- Share your syllabus or assignment ahead of time
- This helps us align the session with your students’ specific research tasks.
Recommended Canvas or Syllabus Language
"Looking for help with a research paper or project? Meet with your subject librarian or our Student Research Consultants to discuss your research needs. You can also connect with us via chat or email."