Scarecrow Press E-Learning in Libraries: Best Practices (Best Practices In Library Services)

If libraries are to remain centers for lifelong learning, then that learning must increasingly be e-learning. But, where can librarians turn for the best ideas and inspiration on how to implement e-learning programs? This book features nine exemplary programs set in all types of libraries. You'll find proven, successful ways of introducing online credit-based information literacy instruction, innovative methods for teaching critical thinking skills online, ways of using open source software in interactive learning, step-by-step guidance for instructional screencasting, ways to work with faculty on e-learning solutions through streaming video, and how a school library used e-learning to teach about the Holocaust. These stellar models offer solutions and feature the aspects you and your staff need because they recognize the problems you face. There's plenty here for all libraries to grab on to and implement to move learning from inside the library to where your users live and work. Review Presenting nine case studies authored by practitioners in the library field across the United States, this volume will inspire and encourage other libraries who are seeking to enter, or expand, the use of e-learning in libraries. Whether at for-credit courses, integrating with existing courses, informational purposes, or workshops, this book will help all looking to serve the ever-growing users of e-learning. Including examples, steps, success and stumbling blocks, these case studies authored by those involved in the project offer real-world expertise in a down-to-earth manner for anyone seeking to learn more. As students at all levels experience and expect more and more online access to materials and training, libraries need to join this revolution, and this book offers ideas to jumpstart one's own projects.--American Reference Books Annual The introduction to this book provides an apt and clear overview of the main issues surrounding e-learning. It effectively puts at ease those new to the concepts, allowing for a feeling of self-confidence on the part of the reader and fostering a sense that they, too, can do this. The style of writing is open and easy and not too academic. . . .Overall, this well-written, interesting text provides librarians embarking on e-learning initiatives with inspiration and practical ideas.--Australian Library Journal The nine case-study accounts that constitute this collection provide much food for thought for librarians in all types of libraries. Lura Sanborn's advice on applying lessons she learned from watching YouTube beauty tutorials to creating her own library instruction videos is just one example of the hands-on approach of the contributors. Topics covered include online credit-based instruction for undergraduates, digital reference, information-literacy e-learning collaboration, open-source software that supports online interactive learning, screencasting for instruction and reference, and more. An index and brief information about the editors and contributors are included. Definitely worth the time to read and reap some ideas for developing e-instruction for library patrons.--Booklist This slim book highlights nine projects that show some different ways libraries have used elearning. . . .Use it to help you decide what type of elearning you are interested in implementing or to show management what can be done.--Online Searcher This volume is a collection of nine different articles detailing nine different universities and schools' experiences with E-Learning. It is obvious from reading this book that there is no one-size-fits-all or even one definition of what E-Learning looks like. Some models were created out of the necessity of reaching more students with limited staff, while other models were designed as online reference desks or to meet the needs of busy students. Others were designed to take advantage of the wealth of information and resources available to today's studen