Showing papers in "Reference Services Review in 2008"
TL;DR: A content analysis evaluated nine Wikipedia articles against comparable articles in Encyclopaedia Britannica, The Dictionary of American History and American National Biography Online in order to compare Wikipedia's comprehensiveness and accuracy.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to provide reference librarians and faculty with evidence regarding the comprehensiveness and accuracy of Wikipedia articles compared with respected reference resources.Design/methodology/approach – This content analysis evaluated nine Wikipedia articles against comparable articles in Encyclopaedia Britannica, The Dictionary of American History and American National Biography Online in order to compare Wikipedia's comprehensiveness and accuracy. The researcher used a modification of a stratified random sampling and a purposive sampling to identify a variety of historical entries and compared each text in terms of depth, accuracy, and detail.Findings – The study did reveal inaccuracies in eight of the nine entries and exposed major flaws in at least two of the nine Wikipedia articles. Overall, Wikipedia's accuracy rate was 80 percent compared with 95‐96 percent accuracy within the other sources. This study does support the claim that Wikipedia is less reliable than other referenc...
126 citations
TL;DR: The study finds that mobile learning has seen increased service development, but has not yet evolved to be a robust field in librarianship.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to present a review of selected mobile learning literature and programmatic approaches for librarians interested in developing mobile digital library services in order to equip readers with a framework for understanding and appreciating mobile digital librarianship.Design/methodology/approach – A literature review is culled from distance learning, medical informatics and medical librarianship, internet social studies, and human computer interaction research. Much of the research reviewed focuses on recently released reports as well as library services utilizing mobile technology.Findings – The study finds that mobile learning has seen increased service development, but has not yet evolved to be a robust field in librarianship.Research limitations/implications – The field of mobile digital technology advances very quickly. This research represents the state of mobile learning in mid‐2008.Practical implications – Library and information professionals will gain a sound conceptual gr...
67 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present the findings of a series of experiments in embedding a librarian at a variety of levels into the undergraduate classroom, aiming to determine whether different levels of librarian embedment correlated with improvement in undergraduate students' information literacy (IL) skills.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to present the findings of a series of experiments in embedding a librarian at a variety of levels into the undergraduate classroom. This study aimed to determine whether different levels of librarian embedment correlated with improvement in undergraduate students' information literacy (IL) skills.Design/methodology/approach – Students from five undergraduate History courses and two undergraduate Women's Studies courses participated in the study. A librarian was embedded in each of the courses, at a variety of levels across courses. All student assignments were graded using a standardized rubric. Students' IL skills were assessed using the research component of the rubric, which measured their ability to locate, retrieve, evaluate, and incorporate sources into their assignments. Students' research and overall scores on their initial problem‐based learning (PBL) assignments and written assignments were compared to their final assignment scores in order to assess improvement over ...
49 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a concurrent mixed methods study was conducted to collect quantitative data indicating current levels of podcast usage, demographics of those using podcasts, technologies used and perceptions of the podcasts.
Abstract: Purpose – This concurrent mixed methods study aims to collect quantitative data indicating current levels of podcast usage, demographics of those using podcasts, technologies used and perceptions of the podcasts. It also aims to collect qualitative data providing an expanded understanding on perceptions of the podcasts and suggestions for future enhancements.Design/methodology/approach – Six sample podcasts were recorded and made available via New Zealand's UCOL – Universal College of Learning – web site in MP3 format. The target population was staff and students of UCOL. A web‐based survey instrument was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data with 86 complete responses received.Findings – Results showed that there were differences found between the groups surveyed in perceptions and use of the library instructional podcasts. The majority of respondents thought the podcasts were “very good” with 71.1 per cent in favour of them. The most helpful podcast topics were identified, suggestions for fu...
48 citations
TL;DR: Kaufman et al. as discussed by the authors developed a model that calculates a return on investment to an institution for its library using a case study at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to interview Paula Kaufman, Dean of Libraries, to help better understand return on investment (ROI) and the increasing importance of demonstrating our value, as libraries, as librarians, indeed, as public service librarians.Design/methodology/approach – During 2007, a small project team was assembled to develop a model that would calculate a return on investment to an institution for its library. The team consisted of Chrysanne Lowe and Kira Cooper from Elsevier, Paula Kaufman from UIUC, Judy Luther of Informed Strategies, and Dr Carol Tenopir from the Center for Information and Communication Studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.Findings – The results of this groundbreaking study were reported early this year in a white paper entitled, “University investment in the library: what's the return? A case study at the University of Illinois at Urbana‐Champaign” by Judy Luther. The model the team developed showed a 4‐to‐1 return.Originality/value – This study s...
44 citations
TL;DR: A model for pedagogical analysis of the video game medium and practical techniques taken from an excellent representative of that medium are provided.
Abstract: Purpose – The paper aims to present a methodology for analyzing the pedagogical content of video games and to present the findings of one such analysis.Design/methodology/approach – The pedagogical analysis presented here consists of three parts – an introduction to the new media of video games, a method for analyzing video games, and lastly, the results of analyzing the pedagogical content of the video game Portal.Findings – The analysis uncovered significant pedagogical content and useful methodologies used in the design of the video game Portal.Practical implications – The pedagogies and design methods used in the game Portal can help librarians engage and educate students of the gaming generation in information literacy tasks.Originality/value – This paper provides a model for pedagogical analysis of the video game medium and practical techniques taken from an excellent representative of that medium.
35 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors focus on the usefulness of a library version of the popular television show Jeopardy as an active learning technique for library instruction, which motivates students to actively participate in class and assume more responsibility for learning, reinforces students' learning of information literacy concepts previously taught, and adds variety to class sessions by providing a fun environment for instructor and students alike.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to focus on the usefulness of a library version of the popular television show Jeopardy as an active learning technique for library instructionDesign/methodology/approach – The review considers the effectiveness of Library Jeopardy as an active learning technique in one‐shot library instructionFindings – The benefits arising from the use of Library Jeopardy in the classroom are: it motivates students to actively participate in class and assume more responsibility for learning; it reinforces students' learning of information literacy concepts previously taught, and it adds variety to class sessions by providing a fun environment for instructor and students alikePractical implications – The focus on a game such as Library Jeopardy demonstrates that instruction librarians can reap the benefits of using this active learning technique as an additional mode of instructionOriginality/value – This paper aids the discussion that educational games can be used as an active learning tech
30 citations
TL;DR: A holistic view of the current practice of chat reference evaluation is provided and a framework that could help reference practitioners evaluate chat reference services in multiple contexts is suggested.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to provide a holistic view of the current practice of chat reference evaluation and to suggest a framework that could help reference practitioners evaluate chat reference services in multiple contexts.Design/methodology/approach – A thorough review of the literature on chat reference evaluation is conducted and the evaluation studies are grouped by their evaluative perspective and measures. Based on the literature review, a framework of perspectives and measures for chat reference evaluation is proposed.Findings – Chat reference evaluation has incorporated a number of new elements that do not exist in desk reference evaluation. All the evaluation perspectives and measures reported in chat reference literature are incorporated into a final framework except for one variable – “cost‐effectiveness” – which lacks the support of empirical studies in the literature.Practical implications – The analytical review of the literature provides a holistic view of how chat reference is being me...
28 citations
TL;DR: Most libraries do not deliver information literacy programs, but some kind of library instruction, and many respondents consider that more money, more librarians and an appropriately equipped space are the best ways to improve information Literacy programs.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this study is to investigate the attitudes and perceptions of Greek librarians regarding information literacy programs and their preparedness for such programs.Design/methodology/approach – The study was targeted at all professional and paraprofessional staff of the academic libraries in Greece and Cyprus. The instrument was a specially designed structured questionnaire which included 20 questions, in sum 67 variables.Findings – Most libraries do not deliver information literacy programs, but some kind of library instruction. Many respondents consider that more money, more librarians and an appropriately equipped space are the best ways to improve information literacy programs. Concerning the information literacy trainers, there are those who emphasize teaching abilities and/or pedagogical experience, and those who emphasize infrastructure and funding.Originality/value – The paper contributes to the existing knowledge of information literacy skills by revealing certain issues rega...
24 citations
TL;DR: The implementation of a peer review of teaching (PROT) instructional improvement program at the Mansfield Library at The University of Montana is described, a three‐step process that provides a framework for integrating formative assessment into teaching.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to describe the implementation of a peer review of teaching (PROT) instructional improvement program at the Mansfield Library at The University of Montana. The success of the PROT program is based on its teacher‐friendly collegial mentoring. This article provides a model for effective implementation in other academic libraries.Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes a program implemented to improve teaching by librarians through a peer appraisal model. Built on best practices, the PROT program implementation is a three‐step process that provides a framework for integrating formative assessment into teaching.Findings – Program evaluation documented that librarians valued their participation as both teachers and observers. Designed to encourage instructional improvement through formative and structured feedback provided by peers, the program has continued to grow as part of the assessment opportunities integrated into the library instruction program.Practical implication...
20 citations
TL;DR: The types, uses, and students' recommendations about reusable digital learning objects at Northwest Missouri State University are shared, which can be used or adapted by other libraries in both online and on‐ground information literacy instruction environments.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to share the types, uses, and students' recommendations about reusable digital learning objects at Northwest Missouri State University, which can be used or adapted by other libraries in both online and on‐ground information literacy instruction environments.Design/methodology/approach – The rationale for incorporation of learning objects, their application, and uses is discussed. Examples of successful applications of learning objects in online and on‐ground instructional classes are provided. Models for developing one's own learning objects are included. A survey and analysis for soliciting students' opinions about the reuse of learning objects is included.Findings – The paper provides suggestions for developing and evaluating learning objects. This includes successful applications of digital learning objects in traditional and online information literacy classes. It shares easy to incorporate learning objects that can be used in tutorials or on‐ground bibliographic...
TL;DR: The paper outlines several methods of evaluating library blogs and outlines successful planning for a library subject‐area blog and uses web tools to evaluate the success of the service.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to outline the creation of a subject‐based blog and to suggest unique evaluation techniques for library blogs.Design/methodology/approach – The methodology involved an online survey, web tracking software, RSS feed tracking, and the use of blog search engines.Findings – A successful blog was launched and statistics show a marked increase in visitors in the second semester when it was available.Research limitations/implications – This article reports on a survey which is not statistically valid. The results, however, provide some insight into users of the blog.Practical implications – The paper outlines several methods of evaluating library blogs and outlines successful planning for a library subject‐area blog.Originality/value – The paper provides information about setting up a relevant information service, and using web tools to evaluate the success of the service.
TL;DR: The feasibility of modifying a commercial off‐the‐shelf video game that incorporates elements of information literacy is determined and the resources required to design and build Benevolent Blue, a “modded” video game are discussed.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to determine the feasibility of modifying a commercial off‐the‐shelf video game that incorporates elements of information literacy.Design/methodology/approach – This paper examines six game design elements of educational video games and discusses the resources required to design and build Benevolent Blue, a “modded” video game.Findings – This paper provides a discussion of the skills, time and funding required to build a “mod” incorporating information literacy.Research limitations/implications – Although modifying commercial videogames is quite popular, very little discussion or work is written about “modding” and its potential use designing video games for libraries. Further research is required to determine if the knowledge transfer of information literacy skills occurs with players. Additional study could look at incorporating information literacy into video games of different genres and well as the impact that video games have on undergraduate student engagement...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a case study that covers the development of a new reference service model in an agricultural research library and provide evidence that, in developing a new model for information services that could be embraced by both clients and staff, the company has created a successful strategy for improving information services to support company goals.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to share practical experience and learning gained from the planning and implementation of a new information service model in an agricultural research library.Design/methodology/approach – A case study that covers the development of a new reference service model is presented. Each stage in the development is discussed in logical sequence – planning; the service model; building the team; developing the processes; convincing the clients; issues; two years on; and the future.Findings – The paper provides evidence that, in developing a new model for information services that could be embraced by both clients and staff, the company has created a successful strategy for improving information services to support company goals. It also acknowledges that the transition from traditional reference librarian to the proactive role of a Knowledge Advisor is not an easy adjustment to make. It recognises that clients too have had to adjust to changes in information delivery.Practical...
TL;DR: In this paper, a comparative review of information literacy standards related to values/value systems was conducted and an analysis of the literature engaging issues related to personal or community values related to information was completed.
Abstract: Purpose – The ACRL Competency Standards related to learners' values and value systems has not been interrogated in relation to information literacy theory or practice. This paper aims to analyze the inclusion of values in these and other guidelines and seeks evidence of the development of this topic in the literature.Design/methodology/approach – A comparative review of information literacy standards related to values/value systems was conducted. An analysis of the literature engaging issues related to personal or community values related to information was completed. Suggestions for continued work were based on these findings.Findings – Competency standards related to values/value systems are out of place in guidelines designed to assist in the assessment of information literacy instruction. Instead, it is more likely that information literacy development is a form of values education.Research limitations/implications – Further research is needed to locate specific personal and community values related t...
TL;DR: The purpose of this paper is to show how an academic library added access points to its digital reference service outside its traditional library web pages, and to what extent these access points were used by patrons.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show how an academic library added access points to its digital reference service outside its traditional library web pages (e.g. online catalog, subscription databases). It seeks to determine whether, how, and to what extent these access points were used by patrons.Design/methodology/approach – Almost 1,200 chat, e‐mail, and instant message digital reference transactions were examined. The data collected included: status of user; format by which questions were submitted (chat, e‐mail, IM); subject area of the question; type of question, and the access point from which the patron submitted the question. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software.Findings – Patrons used the access points in external resources over 25 per cent of the time. They took advantage of the access points as their research needs arose. An increase in the amount of reference transactions received was observed after the addition of the external access points.Practical implications ...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explore and emphasize the impact of academic computer game studies programs on library services and collections and highlight emerging practices within academic librarians serving students and faculty in this field.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore and emphasize the impact of academic computer game studies programs on library services and collections.Design/methodology/approach – A review of the literature related to the relationship between gamers, game studies, and libraries, precedes discussion of the background of academic computer game studies programs. The potential challenges and opportunities concerning collection development, information literacy instruction, and reference within academic libraries are addressed along with highlights of emerging best practices.Findings – The paper provides analysis of game studies as an emerging academic discipline and of the scholarly communication within this field. It also highlights emerging practices within academic librarians serving students and faculty in this field.Research limitations/implications – Because game studies is a new discipline, best practices to meet users' needs are just beginning to be established for academic libraries. Further rese...
TL;DR: An overview of how reference service is provided in the 3D virtual world, Second Life (SL), is provided to further the professional understanding of the newest reference “frontier” and its impact on the library reference world.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of how reference service is provided in the 3D virtual world, Second Life (SL), and to further the professional understanding of the newest reference “frontier” and its impact on the library reference world.Design/methodology/approach – A survey study was conducted to examine the nature and practice of reference service provided by volunteer reference practitioners in SL. Different aspects of SL reference were studied, including types of reference questions, types of reference sources, communication methods, reference competencies and differences between SL reference and real life reference.Findings – The paper reveals that, as an independent service point, the SL reference desk serves mostly SL‐related information needs and reference librarians rely heavily on their personal knowledge to answer users' questions. One distinct feature of the SL reference desk is its social nature. It functions both as a place for social gathering and a place for...
TL;DR: Although the library literature enthusiastically supports active learning approaches to teaching information literacy in theory, there are statistically few librarians who employ these learning modalities in their teaching.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to mitigate the dearth in the library literature of large‐class, active learning pedagogies, by providing examples of these instructional approaches used in mega‐classes within the science, humanities, and education fields, for application within the library environment, specifically in large information literacy instruction sessions.Design/methodology/approach – The author surveys both the library and science and education literatures, comparing coverage of active learning approaches in the professional literatures of each.Findings – Although the library literature enthusiastically supports active learning approaches to teaching information literacy in theory, there are statistically few librarians who employ these learning modalities in their teaching. There are hardly any examples in the library literature of librarians using large‐class, active‐learning pedagogies. This article discusses some of the reasons behind librarians' reluctance to use active learning tec...
TL;DR: In this paper, a questionnaire was designed to measure IL learning outcomes that included formulating search strategies, evaluation of resources, and resource recognition, and the results showed a number of areas where the IL training sessions could be improved to better use the allotted 60 minutes.
Abstract: Purpose – This descriptive research attempts to determine whether students are retaining knowledge from a single information literacy (IL) training session and whether there are other competencies that need to be covered in a 60 minute IL session.Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire was designed to measure IL learning outcomes that included formulating search strategies, evaluation of resources, and resource recognition. The tool was administered to students registered in an English class who were required to complete IL instruction. Students were given the test prior to IL instruction and post‐IL instruction.Findings – The results of the study show a number of areas where the IL training sessions could be improved to better use the allotted 60 minutes. The trainers' findings gave clear directions on where to focus their efforts and where positive results are being achieved. The questionnaire was easy to administer and helped to fulfill the objectives of improving the IL training.Practical implic...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors describe the benefits of contact between the language librarian and a first year language class at Washington State University, for the purpose of promoting library resources to inform language learning.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to describe the benefits of contact between the language librarian and a first year language class at Washington State University, for the purpose of promoting library resources to inform language learning.Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses sociolinguistic research as it applies to motivating language learners, and promoting materials for language acquisition. By keeping abreast of sociolinguistic literature, librarians can choose the best approach for supporting, motivating, and scaffolding first year language learners through both library instruction and library collections.Findings – The experience described provides a strategy for making contact with teaching faculty, promoting library materials, and the tips for planning and delivering a library instruction session on language materials to a first year language class.Practical implications – This approach can be particularly valuable for librarians who wish to initiate contact with language students in the ear...
TL;DR: This paper identifies and annotates periodical articles, monographs, and audiovisual material, in the area of library instruction and information literacy, that contain unique scholarly contributions and quality reproductions.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a selected bibliography of recent resources on library instruction and information literacy.Design/methodology/approach – The paper identifies and annotates periodical articles, monographs, and audiovisual material, in the area of library instruction and information literacy.Findings – The paper provides information about each source, discusses the characteristics of current scholarship, and describes sources that contain unique scholarly contributions and quality reproductions.Originality/value – The information in the paper may be used by librarians and interested parties as a quick reference to literature on library instruction and information literacy.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe successful partnerships between Purdue University Libraries' faculty and directors of undergraduate honors programs, reporting the results and implications of these collaborations and sharing effective approaches for building new partnerships.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper sets out to describe successful partnerships between Purdue University Libraries' faculty and directors of undergraduate honors programs. By reporting the results and implications of these collaborations and sharing effective approaches for building new partnerships, the author hopes to provide ideas and suggestions for others considering similar collaborations and services.Design/methodology/approach – During the 2006/2007 academic year, the Instructional Outreach Librarian at Purdue University, West Lafayette, began partnering with directors of honors programs and consequently implemented new services for undergraduate honors students. The paper cites examples, including one pilot program in particular – a research workshop for freshmen honors students in the College of Liberal Arts. Also included are recommendations and effective approaches for partnership building, survey results, and plans for future programming and services.Findings – These partnerships have strengthened the Lib...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors show how, in planning and building a new library at a US-style higher education institution in the Middle East, special attention was paid to the need to encourage and enhance student information literacy competencies.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show how, in planning and building a new library at a US‐style higher education institution in the Middle East, special attention was paid to the need to encourage and enhance student information literacy competencies. This was a core purpose behind the building design, activity zones and Information Commons layout.Design/methodology/approach – Librarians visited a wide range of academic libraries in the USA and Canada as a means of benchmarking best practice in space and building design. Extensive feedback was also gathered from the campus community and their desires reflected in the final design.Findings – The library classrooms and adjacent Information Commons are key components in facilitating student information literacy skills.Practical implications – Student attainment of core information literacy skills can be facilitated and enhanced through library facility design, particularly through the careful placement of instruction classrooms and a central computi...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors argue that continued research on how memory affects the reference librarian can encourage growth within the profession and re-establish memory's role within reference librarianship.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to re‐establish memory's role within reference librarianship, and to argue that continued research on how memory affects the reference librarian can encourage growth within the profession.Design/methodology/approach – Neuroscience and psychological explanations of memory are introduced and then utilized to show how reference librarians access and impress memory. Perspectives on reference librarianship in relation to memory, service, education, and knowledge management are also presented and scrutinized.Findings – Memory is an integral part of librarianship, yet often overlooked. Memory is also a complex tool which comprising overlapping systems. Owing to the nature of these systems, it is sometimes difficult to decipher when one system is being utilized and another is not.Research limitations/implications – Memory is not tangible, though neuroscience has been able to map out some processes. Because of memory's elusive quality, the paper relies heavily on present biological and p...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors describe a program that provides quick and relevant library instruction and research support for teaching faculty and their students within the context of the classroom, identifying the pressures on teaching faculty to improve critical inquiry and to conform with the state requirements and demands of future employers as providing an opportunity for academic librarians to present library instruction as a win-win solution.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to describe a program that provides quick and relevant library instruction and research support for teaching faculty and their students within the context of the classroom.Design/methodology/approach – The paper identifies the pressures on teaching faculty to improve critical inquiry and to conform with the state requirements and demands of future employers as providing an opportunity for academic librarians to present library instruction as a win‐win solution, consistent with library priorities in supporting research and promoting information literacy.Findings – This project describes a strategy for implementing a drive‐by BI mini‐session, including identifying key courses and faculty, contacting them, positioning the drive‐by BI opportunity for the best effect and impact, and following up with the faculty and students.Practical implications – This approach is particularly useful for librarians who are striving to reach teaching faculty and, through them, students with the bene...
TL;DR: A definition of “reference” that takes into account the activities of a twenty‐first century reference librarian will serve to advance reference services and, by so doing, will both impact reference librarians' future and preserve and renew the value of referenceLibrarianship.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this editorial is to examine the changing nature of the role of reference services, and to work towards a new definition of the term “reference”.Design/methodology/approach – The paper assesses the current situation and looks forward to a new definition of “reference”.Findings – The paper finds that a new definition of “reference” holds great promise.Originality/value – A definition of “reference” that takes into account the activities of a twenty‐first century reference librarian will serve to advance reference services and, by so doing, will both impact reference librarians' future and preserve and renew the value of reference librarianship.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors address scholarly concerns related to the performance of the "new" Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) database and provide education researchers and those who teach education research (at the Reference Desk, in a lab or chatting with a student at 2.00 am) a means of evaluating and selecting alternative databases based on their relative coverage of major education journals.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper seeks to address scholarly concerns related to the performance of the “new” Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) database and provides education researchers and those who teach education research (at the Reference Desk, in a lab or “chatting” with a student at 2.00 am) a means of evaluating and selecting alternative databases based on their relative coverage of major education journals. Alternative research strategies are discussed in light of ERIC's loss of position and importance as a single, comprehensive education resource. Broader implications regarding the role of librarians as educators are presented.Design/methodology/approach – The journal indexing coverage of ERIC (old and new) and alternative databases were checked against two recent Institute of Scientific Information (ISI) Journal Citation Reports (most cited journals in 2004 and 2005) in three categories: Education and Educational Research, Special Education, and Educational Psychology. The results are presented...
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to help reference librarians in academic institutions to more effectively use UN information resources to meet users' needs.Design/methodology/approach – This paper outlines the United Nations' structure, addresses the effects of misconceptions regarding the organization's boundaries, describes the categories of UN information resources and their most useful content, identifies and evaluates the most important reference tools by or about the UN, and casts light on little‐known obstacles to intellectual access in the UN information environment.Findings – Access to UN information is often hindered by the idiosyncrasies of UN documents and their records, misconceptions about the United Nations' relationships with other organizations, and a lack of in‐depth information about UN reference sources. The effects of these problems can be ameliorated, however, through the information, techniques, and strategies presented here.Originality/value – This article identifies and eva...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provide an overview on information literacy/library programs for first-year students in Canadian universities and colleges. But there is no evidence of research in the area of library services for firstyear college and university students in Canada.
Abstract: Purpose – The aims of this paper is to provide an overview on information literacy/library programs for first‐year students in Canadian universities and colleges.Design/methodology/approach – The paper introduces and discusses periodical articles, monographs and up‐to‐date research on the subject. It presents anecdotal evidence gained from web site searches of 169 Canadian post‐secondary institutions complemented by personal communications from library and student services staff.Findings – The study provides information about several types of library services for first‐year students currently in use in Canadian academic libraries.Originality/value – There is no evidence of research in the area of library services for first‐year college and university students in Canada. This paper complements research on information literacy/library programs offered through academic libraries in other countries by focusing solely on first‐year student initiatives in Canadian academic libraries.