DRAFT

Teaching of Information Literacy Skills

in Public Libraries, across the Generations

12.29.04

Submitted to

The Institute of Museum and Library Services

For a National Leadership for Libraries Program

Research and Demonstration Grant

Submitted by

The Rapid City Public Library

In Partnership with:

February 1, 2004

Abstract

Need: The teaching of information literacy (IL) skills in public libraries lack standards and measurable outcomes when related to serving a population of all ages and cultures. Library patrons anticipate that public libraries have standards and outcomes in their public library transactions. Access and navigation to information, whether in a public library or another setting requires skills yet to be developed.

Teaching in public libraries often starts with an end in site. There is less opportunity for the journey of learning along the way. In doing so, public libraries serve multiple generations of people of which many have not received formal education in navigating and accessing online information. Aging generations often find they are dependent upon the availability of others for their information needs while younger generations can navigate the tools of technology but lack in outcomes that are effective and accurate. In today’s information economy, the increased aging of our population, and complexity of everyday living, information literacy skills are akin to driving, talking on the phone, and exercise as a quality of life factor.

The purpose of the project is to develop public library standards for the teaching of information literacy skills that integrates generational experiences, cultural awareness, and learning styles.

Project Objectives:

§ Assess the information gathering needs of generations

§ Adapt best practices for teaching IL standards within public library services

§ Determine the unique characteristics for teaching IL standards within public library services

§ Create formal and informal methods for teaching IL skills within public library services

§ Develop individual and group mobile teaching tools and equipment

§ Create a manual of IL standards for training public librarians

Project Activities:

Research the information needs of generations beginning with 2005

Determine best practices of IL skills to establish public library standards

Produce teaching materials to support multiple learning styles

Develop an intergenerational training module with a train-the-trainer application

Test the Teaching of Information Literacy Skills in Public Libraries across the Generations and Cultures in fifteen (18) small, medium, and large public libraries across the U.S.

Evaluate the applicability and outcomes of the model among library directors, library staff members and stakeholders.

Project Leaders: Greta Chapman, Director of the Rapid City Public Library, will be the Project Manager and handle administrative oversight of the project. A research assistant will be hired to produce the planned manual pertaining to the development of IL standards in public libraries. A trainer will be hired and responsible for assisting each library in testing and utilizing the model.

Anticipated Results: It is anticipated public library patrons will have increased accuracy of answers by applying effective use of IL skills. Evaluation: the model will include an evaluation survey for librarians, library patrons and groups will be offered a checklist of IL skills they wish to obtain from an individual tutor session or participation in formal sessions, mobile tools and equipment will be utilized within age related organizations and integrated generational sessions. Dissemination: Project information will be disseminated primarily through the electronic (online and CDROM) and print production of Information Literacy Standards for Public Libraries, Across the Generations and Cultures. The manual will provide a recommended informal and formal process for a public library to apply IL standards addressing the needs of generations, cultures, and learning styles. It is anticipated that library staff will speak at conferences and institutions about the purpose and outcomes of the model. Sustainability – increased library statistics and programming should indicate the sustainability of this proposed project.