Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Circulation Services • Library Policies • Library Assessment

Bibliographic Instruction

Term from Library Services industry explained for recruiters

Bibliographic Instruction is a key part of modern library services where librarians teach people how to find and use library resources effectively. Think of it as being like a teacher who shows students and other library users how to search databases, find reliable information, and use research tools. It's sometimes called "library instruction," "information literacy instruction," or "research skills training." This role combines teaching abilities with library expertise to help people become independent and skilled researchers.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted weekly Bibliographic Instruction sessions for undergraduate students

Developed Library Instruction curriculum for first-year orientation programs

Led Information Literacy workshops reaching over 500 students annually

Created online Bibliographic Instruction tutorials using modern learning platforms

Typical job title: "Instruction Librarians"

Also try searching for:

Information Literacy Librarian Teaching Librarian Research Instruction Librarian Library Instructor Academic Librarian Reference and Instruction Librarian Educational Services Librarian

Where to Find Instruction Librarians

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a comprehensive information literacy program for a large university library?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss program planning, assessment methods, collaboration with faculty, and integration with curriculum. They should mention both in-person and online teaching methods, and ways to measure student success.

Q: How do you stay current with changing research technologies and adapt your instruction methods?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should include professional development activities, following current trends in education technology, and examples of implementing new teaching methods or tools in their instruction.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you assess the effectiveness of your library instruction sessions?

Expected Answer: Should mention using student feedback, pre and post-tests, faculty input, and tracking student performance on research assignments. Should also discuss adjusting teaching methods based on assessment results.

Q: Describe how you would handle a class of students with varying research skill levels.

Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for engaging both beginners and advanced students, such as group work, tiered assignments, and providing additional resources for different skill levels.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What teaching methods would you use to engage students in a one-hour library instruction session?

Expected Answer: Should mention interactive activities, hands-on practice with databases, and basic presentation skills. Should show understanding of time management and basic learning objectives.

Q: How would you explain the difference between a database search and a Google search to students?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain complex concepts in simple terms and demonstrate understanding of basic research tools and their differences.