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The authors conducted a rubric assessment of information literacy (IL) skills in research papers across five undergraduate first-year seminar programs to explore the question "What impact does librarian intervention in first-year courses have on IL performance in student work?" Statistical results indicate that students in courses with greater levels of strategic faculty-librarian collaboration performed significantly better in IL outcomes than those in courses with low collaboration. Intensive librarian course support was not necessary to achieve significant learning gains; these tended to occur when librarians provided initial input into syllabus and assignment design, followed by one or two assignment-focused IL workshops.

In spring 2020, the California State University System and its 23 campuses became the first in the United States to commit to a year of remote instruction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote instruction separated the system's librarians from their users, whose needs were especially great within the system's ethnically, economically, and academically diverse student body. At California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), public health guidelines and closures prevented many students from fulfilling internship and field experience requirements needed for graduation. CSUCI's John Spoore Broome Library established a work-around by implementing a virtual internship program for one undergraduate that benefited both the student and the library. This paper, coauthored by the intern, documents the virtual internship, describes the model and structure of the experience, and argues that such remote internships are one pandemic side effect that should remain to promote equity in library and information science.

Stanford University Libraries has recently acquired and made available to researchers the personal and professional papers of Russian poet Andrei Voznesenskii (Andrey Voznesensky). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores a case study at Fresno State and how the library partners with the career center to support student success in career placement and advancement. The article will share opportunities and challenges in forming and maintaining such partnership and offer some best practices to deliver career research workshops collaboratively.

The Claremont Colleges Library conducted direct rubric assessment of Pitzer College First-Year Seminar research papers to analyze the impact of diverse levels of librarian course collaborations on information literacy (IL) performance in student writing. Findings indicate that progressive degrees of librarian engagement in IL-related course instruction and/or syllabus and assignment design had an increasingly positive impact on student performance. A secondary indirect analysis of librarian teaching evaluations and self-perceived learning gains by students and faculty showed no correlation to rubric IL scores, suggesting the importance of "authentic" assessment in determining actual learning outcomes. This mixed-methods study presents findings in each area and examines their implications for effective IL course collaborations.

Stanford University Libraries has recently acquired and made available to researchers the personal and professional papers of Russian poet Yevgeny Yevtushenko. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

More and more of today's scholars conduct their research in a digital realm rather than using a print collection. The University of Arizona Libraries Guide on the Side tutorial software offers an opportunity to apply the principles of active learning with real world research scenarios. This paper reports on the design and introduction of interactive guided tools to support information literacy instruction in a community college setting. The initial implementation included 110 students who provided voluntary feedback about their perceptions and participated in a quiz assessing their comprehension. Response to the tutorials was overwhelmingly positive, with 96% of students reporting an increased understanding of given research interfaces after taking the interactive tutorials. In testing, students exhibited greater comprehension of the scope of the research interface, with an almost 55% increase in student performance over students who did not take the tutorials.

The first section of this article reviews the literature on the changing face of reference, beginning with a discussion of the national decline in reference transactions, its causes, and the likelihood that online reference services might one day halt or reverse the decline. It then analyzes definitions of the term "reference," pointing to a disconnect between those definitions and much of the work that actually takes place at reference desks. Next, critiques of desk-centric models of reference are examined, followed by a discussion of the persistence of the desk in so many academic libraries today. The analysis of the literature in section one informs the re-envisioning of reference services at CPP discussed in section two. Specifically, section two describes and assesses CPP's reference desk staffing shift from librarians to LibStARs (Library Student Assistant Researchers) and our implementation of LibAnswers in an effort to automate some reference transactions. The paper ends with an overview of the benefits of these new initiatives.

Many of our reference interactions are face-to-face at a desk or in our offices. Unfortunately, not all of our students are on campus. Whether a non-traditional student or a traditional undergraduate, more of our patrons are attending online classes or attending satellite campuses with no librarians on site. It's difficult to reach these students, but it's even more difficult to reach them when libraries are facing tremendous financial hardships and have limited their technology budgets. Fortunately technological advances such as programs that offer free virtual "face-to-face" time with our patrons are becoming more available. Programs such as Skype, Jing, Moodle and Spark offer librarians and patrons the freedom to interact with each other at low or no costs. Sadly many librarians are either uncomfortable with the new technology or don't feel the quality of service is as good as high-priced tools. This paper will share the basic set-up of various free or low cost online programs, outline the benefits and drawbacks of some of those programs, and provide effective interaction techniques to use with distance learners to help make the reference interview and information literacy sessions a more positive and comfortable experience for librarians and students.

Academic libraries need reliable information on researcher data needs, data curation practices, and attitudes to identify and craft appropriate services that support outreach and teaching. This paper describes information gathered from a survey distributed to the College of Science and Mathematics faculty at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), a master's-granting, teaching-centered institution. There was a more than 60 percent response rate to the survey. The survey results provided insight into the science researchers' data curation awareness, behaviors, and attitudes, as well as what needs they exhibited for services and education regarding maintenance and management of data. It is important that professional librarians understand what researchers both inside and outside their own institutions know so that they can collaborate with their university colleagues to examine data curation needs.

This paper looks at the author's outreach efforts as a distance librarian to encourage library use among a distance student population that comprises satellite locations, students attending online, students attending courses through instructional television, and students attending hybrid courses. Outcomes of the author's outreach attempts and research demonstrating what other librarians have done to reach out to their distance population are discussed. Examples of outreach methods include: collaborating with faculty to blend information literacy instruction into a face-to-face subject specific distance classroom, embedding the librarian into a subject specific class via course management software, and using the reference interview to provide electronic research help to a class. Many distance students never enter the physical library. Librarians serving a distance population are forced to be creative in outreach efforts.

The purpose of this project was to investigate how students' search strategies changed over the course of a semester-long information literacy class. Data collection included four different paper questionnaires corresponding to course content in the spring 2008 semester. Seventy-seven participants completed the questionnaires and course work in the class. Results showed that participants' demographics did not have any impact on their selection of search keywords. While participants reported better search experiences with more search keywords, they were not able to develop more sophisticated search keywords after receiving more instruction and search experience. The participants who did develop more sophisticated search keywords had better search experiences and a higher rate of satisfaction with their research results. Future studies should examine what enabled these participants to develop more sophisticated search keywords. (Contains 6 tables.)

Librarians often cringe when they hear the word copyright, when it is combined with electronic reserves the immediate impulse is to run away as far and as fast as possible. This paper presents the process used by the Armacost Library staff at the University of Redlands to develop and implement a copyright policy for the electronic reserve collection. The development of the policy, the implementation, and the procedures used for copyright compliance are presented. Other libraries of similar size that are struggling with the copyright issues specific to electronic reserves will hopefully be able to use this example as a model. (Contains 9 resources.)

This paper examines podcasting as a library support for distance learning and information systems and services. The manuscript provides perspective on the knowledge base in the growing area of podcasting in libraries and academia. A walkthrough of the podcast creation and distribution process using basic computing skills and open source tools is narrated. Challenges to the process and guidelines for increased chances of success are presented using an example framework of a do-it-yourself podcast pilot created for an academic library course. Finally, some implications are discussed for podcast systems as a distance learning aid in support of the Guidelines for Distance Learning Library Services. (Contains 28 notes.)

In June of 2001, the University of California Libraries initiated a pilot project that enabled library patrons to direct request items held in the University of California Special Collection Units. The pilot ended the need for patrons to initiate most requests for unique items in person through the Special Collections department and allowed patrons to self-determine the need for a unique item when searching the shared UC-wide catalog, Melvyl[R]. The following article discusses the process used to handle the requests, includes perspectives from the two units overseeing the requests, evaluates the overall success of the pilot and offers considerations for implementing a similar service elsewhere. (Contains 1 figure and 1 note.)

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to discuss how a mixed-methods approach to assessing student learning was used to determine the efficacy of redesigned library instructional spaces. Design/methodology/approach: In 2017, the library at San Diego State remodeled a classroom to support active learning. The author undertook a pilot study to compare outcomes from the active learning classroom (ALC) and the traditional computer lab (CL) classroom. The assessment was done after one-shot library sessions for four sections of the same course in the ALC and the CL. Students completed surveys to assess their reactions to the instruction and e-mailed the librarian copies of the articles that they selected which were analyzed for quality using a rubric. Findings: The mean scores from the CL classroom sections were slightly higher for the survey questions, though it was not statistically significant. The articles selected by students in the ALC had a slightly higher average quality score on the rubric, however, it was not large enough to be statistically significant. Research limitations/implications: This was a limited assessment project and the results may not be generalizable to other institutions or types of instruction. Overall, students selected high-quality resources and felt positive about the library after instruction in both library classrooms. The data did not demonstrate significant improvements in student learning outcomes or attitudes in the remodeled ALC. Originality/value: This mixed-methods assessment technique can be used to evaluate student learning and attitudes about the library and may be adapted by other librarians. It may also be of interest to those interested in designing learning spaces in libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The purpose of this paper is to discuss customizing an open-source program called the Assignment Calculator into a tool designed specifically to serve the needs of students at California State University, Fresno, and at San José State University. The paper aims to discuss information literacy standards, students' need for convenient access to resources, time-management and research help and the technical issues involved in such a project. Design/methodology/approach -- The paper presents how the steps and content of the open-source tool were connected to the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Competency Standards. Subject matter was researched and evaluated from other tutorials to find the most valuable instructional concepts based on assessment of their students' needs. The paper discusses ways to customize, maintain and continue to revise the Assignment Calculator to keep it relevant and beneficial. Findings -- The customized online tool can help improve understanding of the library's role in information literacy and provides opportunity for librarians and faculty to collaborate. Statistics and a survey can yield information on usage and usefulness. Originality/value -- This case study reviews current research in incorporating information literacy concepts into an online tool. It describes the process for librarians to research and customize an open source tool and concludes that while it is initially time-consuming, it is ultimately a rewarding experience which will improve students' understanding of these concepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — A comparative case study of two academic libraries in two continents aims to investigate reasons behind similarities and differences between Universidad del Bio-Bio (UBB) in Concepciôn, Chile, and California State University San Marcos (CSUSM). Design/methodology/approach — Empirical data and interview transcripts are analyzed in the paper to provide insight into characteristics of academic libraries in an international context. Findings — The paper finds that, while institutional age, student population size, and number of librarians are comparable, the services, usage, and collections at each library are distinct. Originality/value — There are few international comparative case studies of academic libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After years of minimal electronic reserve use at the University of California, Irvine Libraries, a combination of opportunity, hard work and luck has made electronic reserves the central part of reserves as a whole. Reviewing the time from January 2003 to June 2004, this paper discusses the many different factors and circumstances that resulted in this change, including advantages resulting from software updates and resultant reorganization of workflow, as well as reflecting on where the Libraries would like to go next. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to seek to inspire discussions about cataloging practices in academic libraries. Design/methodology/approach – The article reviews the recent University of California Libraries report, Rethinking How We Provide Bibliographic Services for the University of California. Findings – The UC report is sprinkled with a sufficient and warranted number of alarming statements about the future of libraries. It should serve as a wake-up call. Originality/value – Readers will be acquainted with a recent, important work, the premises of which are central to the services provided by academic libraries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the many difficulties of a newly founded satellite branch library to evolve into an independent college library within sixteen years. Changing roles and priorities are discussed, as well as the influence of the accrediting agency on this small California community college library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many of our reference interactions are face-to-face at a desk or in our offices. Unfortunately, not all of our students are on campus. Whether a non-traditional student or a traditional undergraduate, more of our patrons are attending online classes or attending satellite campuses with no librarians on site. It's difficult to reach these students, but it's even more difficult to reach them when libraries are facing tremendous financial hardships and have limited their technology budgets. Fortunately technological advances such as programs that offer free virtual “face-to-face” time with our patrons are becoming more available. Programs such as Skype, Jing, Moodle and Spark offer librarians and patrons the freedom to interact with each other at low or no costs. Sadly many librarians are either uncomfortable with the new technology or don't feel the quality of service is as good as high-priced tools. This paper will share the basic set-up of various free or low cost online programs, outline the benefits and drawbacks of some of those programs, and provide effective interaction techniques to use with distance learners to help make the reference interview and information literacy sessions a more positive and comfortable experience for librarians and students. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A growing yet unresolved problem in access services today is controlling user access to resources in a networked environment. This paper describes the history of network authentication, explores the issues involved in selecting an authentication method, discusses the benefits and drawbacks of the various methods, identifies efforts by some integrated library services vendors and academic institutions to address this problem, and makes recommendations for selecting an authentication scheme for a college library. The discussions are based in part upon the results of a survey conducted with California community college libraries, various integrated library system vendors, and online resource companies. Technical terms are defined in a glossary. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In spring 2015, the Cal Poly Pomona University Library conducted usability testing with ten student testers to establish recommendations and guide the migration process from LibGuides version 1 to version 2. This case study describes the results of the testing as well as raises additional questions regarding the general effectiveness of LibGuides, especially when students rely heavily on search to find library resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The King Library in San José, California, is a unique combination of academic and public library. It serves the diverse populations of the City of San José and San José State University (SJSU). This article provides analysis of data collected in a study on the concept of "library as place" and SJSU students' sense of belonging toward the King Library building. This study involved a mixed quantitative-qualitative research approach. In total, 744 students were surveyed. The results show that SJSU students use the library and it is relevant to their needs. Ideas for improvement and creation of services are offered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childrens Hospital Los Angeles is a pediatric hospital and research institute affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC). Historically, the library at Childrens Hospital was staffed by a hospital-employed librarian. In 1999, the library position was outsourced to USC's Norris Medical Library. The new position is staffed by a librarian who divides her time equally between two locations: the Childrens Hospital Library and the Norris Medical Library. This staff sharing arrangement has three primary goals: increase the collaboration between the libraries; improve access to resources and library staff experience; and provide faster document delivery service to the Childrens Hospital library. This paper presents the details of the positions, and addresses the pros and cons for both libraries and the librarian. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A new library, radically different in concept and reality from any library that currently exists, is being developed by the City of San Jose and San Jose State University. Located in downtown San Jose on a site of two earlier libraries, the new building will serve both thc campus and the community. This paper provides the perspective of the Dean of SJSU Library, and a Reference Librarian heavily involved in the planning process. Issues addressed include initial and ongoing visions, barriers encountered, what works well in planning, merging vs. nonmerging of services, unexpected consequences, and hurdles left to clear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the new generation of discovery systems evolve and gain maturity, it is important to continually focus on how users interact with these tools and what areas they find problematic. This study looks at user interactions within SearchWorks, a discovery system developed by Stanford University Libraries, with an emphasis on identifying and analyzing problematic and failed searches. Our findings indicate that users still experience difficulties conducting author and subject searches, could benefit from enhanced support for browsing, and expect their overall search experience to be more closely aligned with that on popular web destinations. The article also offers practical recommendations pertaining to metadata, functionality, and scope of the search system that could help address some of the most common problems encountered by the users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the library of the University of California in Irvine designed by Michael Wilford and Associates. It provides relevant architectural drawings, floor plans, blueprints, architectural perspectives and site plan of different sections of the building. The paper also describes the materials and architectural elements and style used in the project.

Openfire is an open-source instant messaging (IM) network and a single unified application that meets the needs of chat reference and internal communication. In Fall 2009, the California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) Library began using Openfire and other Jive software IM technologies to simultaneously improve our existing IM-integrated chat reference software and implement an internal IM network. This case study describes the chat reference and internal communications environment at the CSUSM Library and the selection, implementation, and evaluation of Openfire. In addition, the authors discuss the benefits of deploying an integrated IM and chat reference network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on a decision which the University Library of the University of California, Santa Cruz, made to move from a static, Dreamweaver- and HTML-created website to an entirely new database driven website using the open-source content management system (CMS) called Drupal. A discussion of the interdisciplinary approach the web site project team took for the transition process, and which featured a focus on user testing, information architecture planning, user analytics, data gathering, and change management, is presented..

The Walter W. Stiern Library conducted a major redesign to conform the library website to modern web standards. While conducting think-aloud usability testing on the new page, we found that our users were disoriented, especially students who had previously used the site or undergone library information literacy instruction. Returning users indicated that the pathway they had been taught as a first-year student was the same pathway they used every time they needed to find research articles. They used the same databases and resources, and the same series of links to get to those resources. As clean, organized, and attractive as we felt the new site was, returning users felt unsettled in their information-seeking process. These findings suggest that as academic libraries forge ahead with new designs, directions, and products in various redesign projects, our websites should help returning users acclimate to new interfaces as much as possible. Further, librarians must consider their approach to information literacy and practice a less prescriptive form of instruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

abstract USC Digital Voltaire, a digital, multimodal critical edition of autograph letters, aims to combine the traditional scope of humanities inquiry with the affordances and methodologies of digital scholarship, and to support scholarly inquiry at all levels, beyond the disciplines associated with Voltaire and the Enlightenment. Digital editing, and digital editions in particular, will likely expand in the next few decades as a multitude of assets become digitized and made available as online collections. One important question is: What role will librarians and archivists play in this era? USC Digital Voltaire points in one possible, creative direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This section offers news briefs of relevance to serials librarians as of August 2016. Topics mentioned include the launch of Taylor & Francis' online hub for scholars TandFChina.com, the 2017 UKSG annual conference to be held on April 10-12 in Harrogate, England, and academic publisher Adam Matthew's partnership with the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana.