THE EMBEDDED LIBRARIAN

Libraries are Evolving

Libraries roles are changing with the advancement of technology, especially academic libraries. Online classes Internet eBooks

Many students no longer need to physically enter a library. Internet eBooks Online databases

What is an Embedded Librarian?

An embedded librarian (EL) is a librarian that is more actively integrated into classes. Traditional classes Online classes EL works closely with the instructor to enhance the instruction of information literacy. Workshops/Labs Assignments Discussion boards

Why an Embedded Librarian?

In ENG 101, research is a primary learning outcome for the course (research paper is assessed for department) Previously, one day of class was devoted to library instruction Overwhelming Confusing No reinforcement (worked on own afterwards) Particularly disadvantageous for developmental students Instructor may not have time to help students research Embedded Librarian is available and more familiar with databases (including more difficult ones) Particularly applicable in classes for students major

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC

Embedded Librarian program piloted in Summer 2012 semester in two English 101 classes on the Georgetown campus. Program advanced into the Fall of 2012 in one English 101 class on the Georgetown campus. Students need more in-depth information literacy and research instruction.

The Georgetown campus librarian has need to reach more of the students on campus.

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC Does it Work?

Results Research Paper Grades No Embedded Librarian Fall 2011 3 sections 45 students

F = 13% D = 11%

A = 4%

B = 28%
C = 42%

A B C

D
F

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC Does it Work?

Results Research Paper Grades No Embedded Librarian Fall 2011 16 students (PACE)

D = 6%

A = 6%

B = 31%
C = 56%

A B C

D
F

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC Does it Work?

Results Research Paper Grades Embedded Librarian Fall 2012 25 students (mainly PACE)

D = 12%

F = 8%

A = 8%
A B C

C = 32%

B = 40%

D
F

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC

Librarian and instructor met several times to work out details

of the program:
Areas of information literacy and research to cover Information literacy workshop dates that correspond to English 101 assignments Information literacy assignments that correspond to English

101 assignments
150 total points allotted to the research portion of the class (15% of overall grade)

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC

Fall 2012 semester: Pre- and post-instruction information literacy assessments were administered

3 information literacy assignments were given:

Library scavenger hunt Citations assignment

Keyword assignment
Required meetings: 2 reference meetings & 1 SSTC visit 5 D2L discussion board postings

The Embedded Librarian at HGTC

6 class visits total including: 1st day of class introduction Pre-instruction information literacy assessment (class period after add/drop)

3 information literacy/research workshops:

Intro to Library & Research Citations Research Post-instruction information literacy assessment (last class

before final exams)

Information Literacy Assessment

15 questions

Multiple choice, multiple answer, true/false

Covered areas such as: Citations Library operations Library resources Databases Boolean Operators Annotated bibliographies

Pre-Instruction Results of the Information Literacy Assessment

Post-Instruction Results of the Information Literacy Assessment

Comparison of Information Literacy Assessment Results

Student Comments about the EL Program

The workshops and reference meetings did help me out a lot. The reference meeting was the most helpful. The most helpful parts of having an embedded librarian were the reference meetings and knowing who the librarian is. She was more helpful than Google or any lifeless handbookSecond best to my professor to ask for advice. it made me feel more comfortable about asking for help. Since I knew Mrs. Amy, I always felt like I could ask for help at any time. The most helpful parts were the reference meetings and the lessons on the databases.
Quotes taken from the EL Class Survey, Fall 2012

Benefits of EL Program
Students, especially those who are developmental, gain an

understanding of research and information literacy through semesterlong instruction. Students obtain more in-depth instruction of research and information

literacy.
Instructors can focus on subject matter rather than instruction of research. Students obtain an understanding of the library and its services, and they feel more comfortable asking a librarian for help. The library is able to better reach ALL students, whether in a traditional classroom or in an online class.

Issues in the Embedded Librarian Program

Logistics what works, what does not?

Workshops are mostly lecture & instruction not enough

hands-on interaction Flaws in the Information Literacy assessment Information literacy assignments not taken seriously by students -- not seen as a critical part of the overall grade Embedded librarian is only part-time at HGTC

Upcoming Changes to the EL Program for Spring 2013

Continue to work on the logistics of the program Workshops now called Research Labs in an effort to make the students understand the importance of the course

component
Research labs becoming more interactive. Information Literacy assessment has been improved

Future of the EL Program at HGTC

Embedded librarian will become more active within online courses

with a need for an information literacy/research component.

EL becomes a second instructor in course & D2L Program can be tailored to any class as the instructor sees fit. Labs in person or via GoToMeeting Designated reference meeting times in person, via Live Chat, or through D2L discussion board Information literacy assignments given by EL Much, much more!

Questions?
For further information about the Embedded Librarian Program at HGTC please contact us. Amy Harris, MLIS Reference & Embedded librarian, Georgetown Campus amy.harris@hgtc.edu Ext. 1423 Alicia Bolton Associate Professor of English, Georgetown Campus alicia.bolton@hgtc.edu Ext. 1412

THANK YOU!
I look forward to working with you!