Make a Request

Sample instruction topics include searching the Find It @ USC catalog, using general and subject-specific databases, basic and advanced search strategies, or locating a source from a citation.

Please note the following requirements:

• Submit your request at least 14 days in advance
• Your course must have an assignment that requires use of library resources
• Instructors must attend the session to answer assignment-related questions
• Sessions are not scheduled until you receive confirmation

Complete the online request form or email your subject librarian to schedule.

Instruction Options

Librarians will work with you to customize sessions to fit the needs of your course and assignment(s):

• Sessions can take all or only part of your class period
• You can schedule multiple sessions over the course of the semester
• Location can be your classroom, a library classroom, or online
• Instruction can be asynchronous using online tutorials or guides

Tips for Successful Sessions

Prepare your students to get the most out of their library instruction:

• Discuss the assignment with students before the session
• Schedule instruction at the point when students are starting their research
• Provide the librarian with the assignment materials in advance

No Research Assignment?

Due to staffing constraints, instruction sessions with a librarian must be designed around a course assignment requiring research. But you can still use existing online tutorials and research guides to give your students an introduction to the library.

Feedback on Library Instruction Sessions for English 102

From Instructors:

“The entire session was great for my students.   The librarians covered info related to my classes' upcoming assignments, including finding and evaluating sources, how to access and use the library website, and MLA references.”

“I love it when the librarians involve our students' work and topics in their presentation.”

“I appreciated giving the student's time to do their own research at the end. I could tell this really helped the lesson stick in their mind, and allowed them to use the tools they learned firsthand. Overall, I found the lesson to be helpful and informative.”

From Students:

“It was easy to follow along and before coming to the session I was overwhelmed with the online resources and how to find credible information, but now I feel prepared.”

“She was very involving and talkative like an actual teacher would be, didn’t feel like a presentation or a lecture but seemed like she actually cared that we understood where to go and wanted to help us. It also wasn’t boring it was very informative and interesting.”

“She was very helpful and was active in ensuring each student got the help they needed.”