Library Instruction

Steely Library’s instruction program develops and enhances the information behaviors and dispositions of students by strategically integrating information literacy across the curriculum at NKU. We do this through collaboration with departmental faculty to target key courses, identify discipline-specific learning outcomes, and build a sequential learning experience from first-year to graduate level students. 

Partner with Us

• Schedule synchronous instruction with a teaching librarian.
  Instruction sessions are held in one of the library’s technology-equipped classrooms or online via Zoom.

• Embed an online information literacy module.
  Search the Canvas Commons for information literacy modules developed by Steely teaching librarians. If you don’t see a module that fits your needs, reach out to library@nku.edu.

• Schedule an assignment design consultation. 
  Meet with a teaching librarian to discuss best practices for research assignments and embedding information literacy into your course. 

Sequential Learning

Steely Library’s instruction program is aligned with the campus’ Quality Enhancement Plan, GEARUP with Information Literacy, and addresses the following program outcomes:  

GATHER information using multiple search tools and strategies

EVALUATE information sources critically

APPLY information: effectively in scholarly and creative endeavors 

RESPECT ethical, legal, economic, and social components of information use

To address these broad outcomes, information literacy instruction addresses foundational skills and concepts in first-year and general education courses. Advanced information literacy is addressed in undergraduate research and graduate courses. The below diagram depicts the program’s sequential learning approach; some concepts will overlap across the tiers.