Frequently Asked Questions About Library Instruction
How much advanced notice is required to schedule a library instruction session?
Two weeks advance notice is required for instruction requests. While library faculty do their best to accommodate all instruction requests, they cannot always be available. If the librarian cannot accept an instruction request, usually they will offer an alternate date or modality. If an alternate date cannot be arranged with the preferred librarian, the library will make every effort to arrange an alternate librarian.
How many sessions should I book for my course?
Library instruction sessions are typically 1 requested session per class. In certain circumstances, if there is Instructor-Librarian collaboration for a special project, a second session can be considered, if there is librarian availability. More than 2 library sessions per class section is typically not possible due to library faculty workload.
Does the library provide asynchronous learning opportunities, such as videos or tutorials?
We have a suite of self-paced, interactive tutorials on a number of topics which can be added to your course via Canvas and other methods.
For library training videos, visit the official Pollak Library eLearning YouTube.
Other videos and tutorials can be found on our Video and Tutorial Guide.
Do I need to be present for library instruction sessions?
Professors should plan to be present for instruction sessions, whether in person or online. Librarians provide specialized instruction as partners in the teaching process, not substitutes. The professor's presence helps maintain student respect, engagement, and active participation.
Where will my instruction session be held?
Instruction sessions can be held in one of the library instruction rooms or in your classroom. The room number will be assigned once the session is booked.
If you have an online class, we can provide instruction via Zoom, create customized online research guides, or provide links to online lessons and tutorials. Contact your subject librarian to discuss these options.
Do you have library instruction student learning outcomes (SLOs)?
The student learning outcomes below reflect a vision of what the Pollak Library would like students at or near graduation to achieve and to take with them beyond their time at CSU Fullerton. These outcomes are based on the Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL). The instruction program at the Pollak Library strives to incorporate a variety of student learning outcomes inspired by the ACRL Framework.
Pursuant to the SLOs, our graduating seniors (at or near graduation) will be able to:
- Describe the stages of the research process through which an information need is expressed and refined.
- Distinguish amongst the wide range of sources available to engage in academic or popular discourse.
- Assess whether or not an information source fulfills an information need.
- Properly cite ideas of others, thus demonstrating the value of information.
- Identify the research support and related services offered by libraries.
Is it possible to arrange instruction sessions for multiple areas of the library (i.e. University Archives exploration, Library Makerspace tools, Digital Humanities workshops).
Due to high demand, librarian time is limited. While librarians make every effort to be available, accommodating multiple session requests in areas involving multiple librarians' schedules is not always possible. The appropriate amount of instruction support depends on the level of the course and the required assignment components.
Can I request instruction on Archives & Special Collections?
The Special Collections Librarian also offers instruction sessions related to University Archives & Special Collections and the use of primary sources in research. Use the form above to request a session, or contact Patrisia Prestinary for more information.
Can my class remain in the library instruction room after the instruction session is finished?
This will be at the discretion of the librarian and will depend on room availability. We will need to know in advance to make those accommodations.
Can I arrange a scavenger hunt/tour for my class?
In order to ensure the best possible service to students, if you’re planning any scavenger hunts/tours in the library or asking students to stop by library service desks, please communicate with your subject librarian in advance. Library faculty can help coordinate any necessary stamps, business cards, etc., that may be required to present in class. In accordance with the no photo policy in the library, if scavenger hunts/tours require photos be taken please coordinate with the library ahead of time.
Can I require every student in my class (individually or in groups) to meet with a librarian for an assignment?
While librarians welcome research consultations, please do not require entire class sections to meet with a librarian for an appointment. This creates an undue workload for librarians that is not sustainable. Please coordinate with your subject librarian to arrange class-wide support, including asynchronous materials, library instruction sessions, or other alternatives for one on one instruction.
I’m not sure how to fill out the instruction request form correctly. Who can I reach out to for help?
Please reach out to your subject librarian for assistance.
I have a student who requires DSS accommodation attending a library session. Who can I reach out to for help?
Library faculty are committed to maintaining accommodations for student learning and success. Please reach out to your subject librarian for assistance.
I don’t have an assignment that requires research but I still want my class to learn about the library. Can I still request a session?
Librarians highly recommend that the session coincide with a research assignment. Sharing the assignment and sample paper topics in advance helps with preparation and planning.
