E-Learning in Libraries

Best Practices

Edited by Charles Harmon, Michael Messina

Publication date:

11 February 2013

Length of book:

134 pages

Publisher

Scarecrow Press

Dimensions:

228x153mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9780810887503

If libraries are to remain centers for lifelong learning, then that learning must increasingly be e-learning. But, where can librarians turn for the best ideas and inspiration on how to implement e-learning programs? This book features nine exemplary programs set in all types of libraries. You’ll find proven, successful ways of introducing online credit-based information literacy instruction, innovative methods for teaching critical thinking skills online, ways of using open source software in interactive learning, step-by-step guidance for instructional screencasting, ways to work with faculty on e-learning solutions through streaming video, and how a school library used e-learning to teach about the Holocaust.

These stellar models offer solutions and feature the aspects you and your staff need because they recognize the problems you face. There’s plenty here for all libraries to grab on to and implement to move learning from inside the library to where your users live and work.

• Introduction by Linda W. Braun, Consultant, Librarians & Educators Online (LEO)
• “Introducing Online Credit-Based Instruction for Undergraduates” by Lauren Pressley, Wake Forest University Library, Winston-Salem, NC
• “NCompass Live: Educating Nebraska’s Librarians Online” by Christa Burns and Michael P. Sauers, The Nebraska Library Commission
• “Digital Reference that supports E-Learning at the University of California” by Teal Smith and Donald Barclay, University of California, Kolligian Library, Merced
• “The Critical Thinking Skills Initiative: An Information Literacy E-Learning Collaboration”
by Barbara Carrel, Jane Devine, Ann Matsuuchi, and Steven Ovadia, City University of New York Libraries
• “Cutting to the Quick: Library Instruction in the Age of Happy Distraction” by Lura Sanborn, St. Paul’s School Library, Concord, NH
• “Developing and Sharing an Open Source Software Tool that Supports Online, Interactive Learning” by Leslie Sult, The University of Arizona University Libraries, Tucson
• “Screencasting for Instruction & Reference” by Greg Notess, Montana State University Library, Bozeman
• “Promoting Faculty Adoption of E-Learning Solutions and Library Services through Streaming Videos” by Coleen Meyers Martin and Lynn D. Lampert, California State University Library, Northridge
• “E-Learning and Holocaust Education in a School Library” by Margaret Lincoln, Lakeview Schools District, Battle Creek, MI

The nine case-study accounts that constitute this collection provide much food for thought for librarians in all types of libraries. Lura Sanborn’s advice on applying lessons she learned from watching YouTube beauty tutorials to creating her own library instruction videos is just one example of the hands-on approach of the contributors. Topics covered include online credit-based instruction for undergraduates, digital reference, information-literacy e-learning collaboration, open-source software that supports online interactive learning, screencasting for instruction and reference, and more. An index and brief information about the editors and contributors are included. Definitely worth the time to read and reap some ideas for developing e-instruction for library patrons.