Mary C. MacDonald Knihy

From tech schools to colleges, research involves making sense of information, managing overload, and evaluating sources. As information grows, students often prioritize immediate gratification, opting for the easiest tools instead of identifying the best options. However, successful research skills require a solid foundation in information literacy and planning. This workbook offers step-by-step instructions that empower students to approach any research project with confidence and timeliness. Aligned with the ACRL Standards for Information Literacy, it provides practical tools for reference and instruction librarians in colleges and community colleges, guiding them in teaching students how to navigate the vast information landscape. Each exercise addresses ACRL benchmark standards and promotes conceptual and applied skills through active, problem-based, and resource-based learning. With 35 ready-to-use and easily modifiable lessons, this resource can serve as a full semester course or a focused seminar. Covering planning, collection, and evaluation, the exercises teach how to access books, bibliographic information, periodicals, indexes, and online sources. This comprehensive guide, featuring expert advice and a timeline, facilitates the establishment of an effective information literacy program, including insights from the University of Rhode Island's successful "Paper Trail Project."