A framework for anti-racist information literacy instruction: exemplar, process, and structure

Are instructional librarians having needed conversations with patrons about how research can perpetuate systemic discrimination and racism? A framework developed collaboratively between UND librarians and focused on exemplar, process, and structure provides a starting point. Learn how you can interrogate the conceptual processes and information architecture behind academic knowledge dissemination systems in order to foster a more anti-racist, equitable, and critical form of information literacy.https://commons.und.edu/cfl-lpp/1018/thumbnail.jp

Development of a Peer Research Consultant (PRC) Program

The reference desk at UND’s main library has seen a steady decline in the number of reference questions. Starting in Fall 2019, we will use peer research consultants (PRCs) to staff the reference desk and go out to campus to promote their service. Reference librarians will be able to do more library instruction and outreach for their departments, and undergraduate students will see their peer as a helpful resource for academic success. The PRCs will also assist with instruction sessions.https://commons.und.edu/cfl-lpp/1011/thumbnail.jp

Development, Implementation and Importance of an Undergraduate Peer Research Consultant Program at the University of North Dakota’s Chester Fritz Library

Purpose: This paper describes both the development of a peer research consultant program – using student assistants to staff the reference desk with minimal supervision while providing high quality research assistance to their undergraduate peers, and the steps taken to create buy-in for the program from campus and librarians. Design / methodology / approach: The authors provide a description of peer reference services and describe how a remodel of the library building facilitated a redesign of services. The paper covers the process of developing program guidelines, securing funding, expectations of peer research consultants, the training process, and lessons learned from a medium-sized academic library. Findings: The findings after the first year demonstrate that undergraduates are highly skilled at providing high-quality reference services when provided with quality training and support. In addition, undergraduate students are now seeking out peer researchers for assistance with research items such as topic formation, keyword development in databases and proper citations. Originality / value: This paper draws on multiple iterations of peer reference models to create an original program, involving training student employees to provide reference services at a paraprofessional-level, as well as providing the methodology for other academic libraries to develop and launch a similar program. Practical Applications: Well-trained Peer Research Consultants (PRCs) provide valued assistance to librarians in freshman composition classes, at the Ask Us reference desk, and to their peers. The program has allowed librarians to provide more outreach to their subject areas. Social Implications: Students prefer going to their peers for research assistance rather than a professional librarian when given the choice. The training the PRCs are provided by librarians provides credibility and trust, which encourages undergraduate students to approach PRCs for assistance

Virtual Collaboration: Exploring New Frontiers

Librarians looking for professional development opportunities, especially in states like North Dakota where many serve small populations in rural areas, will benefit from thinking creatively about organizing a conference. Two sections of the North Dakota Library Association (NDLA) used Blackboard Collaborate Ultra as a platform to produce a fully online conference. This virtual “unconference” was interactive and robust, with speakers from across the state, interactive whiteboards, poster rooms, meeting space for special interest groups, and more. In this workshop, we will share what we have learned about Collaborate Ultra, including its strengths and weaknesses. We hope to brainstorm and discuss other potential applications, including classrooms, professional development, online meetings, group work, and supporting distance students and colleagues. Please bring your device and join us in a working session where you will experience Collaborate Ultra first-hand and discover how this tool can facilitate learning and collaboration and impact the work you do

A New Frontier: Lessons Learned from NDLA\u27s First Online Un-Conference

NDLA’s Health Science Information and Academic & Special Libraries Sections held its inaugural fully online “un-conference” using Blackboard Collaborate Ultra. A fully online conference can be a robust, low-cost alternative to a traditional conference that could be an advantage to librarians looking for professional development opportunities in this rural state. In this session, the planners will discuss creating this experience and lessons learned.https://commons.und.edu/cfl-lpp/1002/thumbnail.jp

Virtual Collaboration: Exploring New Frontiers

Librarians looking for professional development opportunities, especially in states like North Dakota where many serve small populations in rural areas, will benefit from thinking creatively about organizing a conference. Two sections of the North Dakota Library Association (NDLA) used Blackboard Collaborate Ultra as a platform to produce a fully online conference. This virtual “unconference” was interactive and robust, with speakers from across the state, interactive whiteboards, poster rooms, meeting space for special interest groups, and more. In this workshop, we will share what we have learned about Collaborate Ultra, including its strengths and weaknesses. We hope to brainstorm and discuss other potential applications, including classrooms, professional development, online meetings, group work, and supporting distance students and colleagues. Please bring your device and join us in a working session where you will experience Collaborate Ultra first-hand and discover how this tool can facilitate learning and collaboration and impact the work you do.https://commons.und.edu/cfl-lpp/1005/thumbnail.jp

Weekend Research

Imagine you have decided to make a large purchase over the weekend. What does Consumer Reports say about that product line? From your home or mobile device, you can research the Consumer Reports buying guides. Or, what if you need to make a car repair? You can find wiring diagrams, car & repair tips, and more using the online Auto Repair Reference Center. Chester Fritz Library has statewide funded online research tools offering quick access to consumer, auto, health information and more for all North Dakota residents. Check out the new Weekend Research guide to get started