Information literacy: not just a buzzword. (Editorial).(Editorial)

Information literacy: not just a buzzword. When the term "information literacy" emerged in the library field, many believed it was merely another round of changing buzzwords. For a field that was in the throes of switching terminology from "bibliographic instruction" to "library instruction," this was understandable. However, information literacy is much more than bibliographic instruction or library instruction.

As defined by the Association of College and Research Libraries and many other groups and institutions, information literate people can identify their information need, identify sources to use to find pertinent information, use those resources efficiently, locate the information, evaluate it critically, and use it ethically. Information literacy also emphasizes helping people to become lifelong learners. It also encourages training and practice in research and information seeking as a whole process, from definition of topic to finding information, from evaluating the information to communicating it to others.

For librarians, information literacy has provided a chance to transform source-based library or bibliographic instruction, which in the past often provided students with a set of print or electronic library resources instead of teaching them how to locate the materials themselves. The tenets of information literacy provide possibilities for programs which will equip people with the tools they need to seek information - not just for the immediate project, but for any future information need in any area. Information literacy programs give librarians a chance to work with faculty to design and deliver more cohesive ...