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Library instruction

A page within Murphy Library

What is Information Literacy Instruction?

Information literacy is the set of integrated abilities encompassing the reflective discovery of information, the understanding of how information is produced and valued, and the use of information in creating new knowledge and participating ethically in communities of learning.

At Murphy Library, we offer Information Literacy instruction that is customized to your class. Some examples of the concepts covered in an IL session include: 

  1. Critically evaluating information found online
  2. Using the library’s databases, catalog, and other tools to find relevant sources
  3. Understanding the differences between scholarly articles and popular sources of information

Additional Information Literacy Resources

The library has also developed learning materials for students, staff, and faculty to use as a supplement to information literacy instruction. These materials include

  • Library Guides - offer guidance on how to find and use specialized resources like research databases, reference materials, and reliable websites 
  • Murphy Library Instruction Playlist - students can watch short videos on forming a database search strategy, using advanced search techniques, and how to use Search@UW.
  • Library Skills Tutorials self-paced Canvas course - series of videos and tutorials covering topics including: using the library catalog, requesting materials from other libraries, forming searches, and assessing the results you retrieve. Use this self enroll link to access the course.

Contact Us

We’re looking forward to working with you, and we’re pleased to continue providing your students with high-quality instruction. If you have any questions related to information literacy instruction, please email us at libinstruct@uwlax.edu.