Joanna M. Burkhardt

Challenges in building an incremental, multi‐year information literacy plan

The authors discuss the plan for building an incremental, multi‐year information literacy program at the University of Rhode Island. Review of the current library instruction program leads to why and how they plan to change the program by focusing on the concepts of understanding what information is, in addition to learning how to gather, evaluate, and use information. The Draft Plan for Information Literacy at the University of Rhode Island Libraries addresses the information and research needs of undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty needs. The development of credit‐bearing courses in information literacy, the creation of information literacy modules for specific disciplines, and the Draft Plan for Information Literacy are discussed.

Information Literacy Successes Compared: Online vs. Face to Face

ABSTRACT This paper compares the results of a comprehensive exam taken by undergraduates enrolled in face-to-face and online sections of a three–credit course in information literacy. Authors discuss choosing, adapting, and implementing the comprehensive exam. Questions are mapped to the ACRL Competency Standards for Information Literacy for Higher Education to assess the effectiveness of the course. Preliminary results indicate that online students performed slightly better than their face-to-face counterparts.

What does electronic full‐text really mean? A comparison of database vendors and what they deliver

The experience of a multi‐site higher education library consortium in purchasing electronic journals and databases is described. The criteria and guidelines developed to assist in the decision‐making process for the purchase of multidisciplinary electronic products and services can be of value to other libraries whether in a single or consortial environment. Factors such as database features, coverage, search features, and delivery options were considered.

Selected Bibliography of Recent Monographs in Adult Education

The purpose of this selected bibliography is to provide librarians with up‐to‐date information on monographs in the field of adult education. This bibliography relates to adult learning, with a focus on higher education, work‐related training, and professional development. Works dealing with adult learning strategies, adult development, and informal learning are included. Mentoring is also considered, both in higher education and in the workplace. This bibliography does not, however, cover the topics of literacy or English as a second language. The focus is on works that relate to the United States, but a few notable additions consider the global need for adult education and how that need is being met.