Meeting the Challenge of Teaching Information Literacy

Reale (access svcs. and outreach librarian, Arcadia Univ.; Inquiry and Research) draws on her experience to assist academic librarians having a difficult time teaching information literacy. Relating personal anecdotes, she encourages librarians to reflect on and change their own practices. She claims the problem begins with a vague definition and poor understanding of information literacy. The difference in culture between subject faculty and librarians can also hinder collaboration—Reale notes that many librarians feel that their work is not understood or appreciated. Each chapter ends with points to ponder; for instance, the chapter on collaboration asks readers to reflect on their professional values to determine how far they’re willing to go to collaborate. Reale also considers stereotypes about the profession as well as librarians’ poor self-perception, and recommends that readers establish a community of practice where they can discuss challenges related to instruction.