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Instruction FAQ

What type of Library Instruction can be arranged for my class?
UTSA offers a variety of options for customized library instruction.

Instruction sessions can be designed around:

• a class assignment
• a specific library tool or database
• a specific academic subject

Librarians offer face-to-face instruction in classroom settings.

How should I prepare my students for Library Instruction?
Make sure that your students clearly understand their assignments and the level of work that is expected of them.

• what materials are appropriate for the assignment?
  • books?
  • encyclopedias or handbooks?
  • journal articles? peer-reviewed articles only?
  • Internet OK?
• how many sources are required to complete the assignment?

Do I need to be at the Library Instruction session with my students?
If possible, yes. Faculty play an important and active role during Library Instruction sessions.

• faculty emphasize important information during the session
• faculty clarify assignments during the instruction session
• faculty reinforce concepts learned during course discussions and later

Are there alternatives to face-to-face instruction?
If you are unable to schedule a customized Library Instruction session, the UTSA Library has several self-directed options including:

• Research 101: UTSA Library
• Library 101: Your Guide to Library Resources at UTSA
• TILT: Texas Information Literacy Tutorial
• a self-guided audio tour of the John Peace Library (30 minutes)
  available in the Multimedia Center

What times are available for Library Instruction sessions?
UTSA Librarians are available during regularly scheduled course times, both daytime and evening hours.
Time slots fill up quickly - contact us as early as possible each semester to make sure you get a time slot that is best for your class.

Please allow at least two weeks to prepare for a class.

Is there help for faculty in writing assignments involving library work?
Faculty are encouraged to contact a librarian when developing assignments.
Databases and resources change frequently.

Where are classes taught?

1604 Campus:
LEC - Library Electronic Classroom (JPL 3.02.32)

• for hands-on instruction
• 13 workstations, accommodates approximately 27 students

BIC - Bibliographic Instruction Center (JPL 3.02.34)

• for larger lecture-style classes
• accommodates approximately 40 students

Downtown Campus:
Electronic Classroom (BV 2.314e)

• for hands-on instruction
• 32 workstations, accommodates approximately 40 students

Both Campuses:
Librarians will also teach in your classroom or in other faculty-requested rooms.

What are class web guides used for?
Class-specific web guides describe library print, subscription, and Internet resources that are useful for class topics.
Look at Class Pages to explore web guides designed for other classes.

Do you teach classes for faculty?
We teach classes for any size faculty group. If there is a topic, resource, or service that you would like faculty to learn about, let us know!

Do you offer individual appointments?
Librarians are available for individual research appointments for both faculty and students. Please consult the list of Bibliographers for a librarian who specializes in your interests, or contact one of the instruction coordinators to determine the appropriate liaison.