Library
Instructional Services
Library instruction provides students with an overview of the services and resources available at the USF Library. A reference librarian will share research tips while demonstrating the online catalog for locating books and the online databases for locating full-text, scholarly journal articles. Sessions range from general to subject specific and can be tailored for special needs. Classes will be scheduled in St. Albert Hall A102 when available to give students hands-on experience. A session is generally 50 minutes, but can be shorter or longer to meet your needs.
We request that your students have a specific assignment to begin utilizing their skills and that they receive the assignment prior to the library instruction session.
To schedule your class for library instruction, two weeks prior to the desired date:
- Submit an online instruction request form -OR-
- Contact Aimee Sayles, Reference & Instruction Librarian, at 815-740-3447 / asayles@stfrancis.edu
For further information on instruction sessions that may be offered, please click on a link below:
Assignment / Course-Related: Tailored to the specific research needs of a class; may include searching the online catalog, online databases and relevant print and online sources
Class Consultations: When your students have time in class for researching a topic, have a reference librarian available to answer questions and provide assistance; an excellent opportunity to provide follow-up to a formal instruction session.
Core I / General Library Instruction: An essential introduction to the USF Library, this session will cover the basics of searching the online catalog, databases and general research tips.
Business: Students will learn how to search business databases to find current company profile information and/or full text journal articles. Print sources for business information will also be covered.
Education: ERIC and Professional Development Collection databases are covered in-depth for researching current education topics. The online catalog and curriculum collection are also highlighted.
Faculty & Staff Instruction: Provides an overview of library services for faculty, staff and students, including the online catalog, online databases, interlibrary loan, reference services and accessing resources from off campus.
Individual Consultations: A reference librarian is always available to assist students at the reference desk, or a student may call ahead to schedule a one-on-one session for assistance with researching an assignment or topic.
Library Tours: This three story tour of the USF Library highlights the numerous services and resources available, including; the reference collection, print indexes, print periodicals, and circulating materials. Schedule a tour in conjunction with an instruction session for a thorough introduction to the USF Library.
Literary Criticism: MLA International Bibliography Online is covered in-depth for locating literary criticism. Additional databases, including Literature Resource Center, are demonstrated. The online catalog and interlibrary loan are also highlighted.
Nursing: In addition to searching the online catalog for print materials, students will learn how to use several databases, including CINAHL, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Cochrane Collection (research classes).
Speech: Researching current topics on the online catalog and online databases, including Opposing Viewpoints and ProQuest Research Library, will be demonstrated.
Other: Please let us know if you have an idea for a session that is not listed. We are happy to accomodate your instruction needs.