About Instructional Programs

Welcome to Penn State University Libraries
Instructional Programs!

Instructional Programs supports the University's and the Libraries' instructional missions by promoting and encouraging the development of information literacy in all Penn State students through collaboration with University faculty, students, staff, and administrators.

While our offices are located at University Park, we support library instruction on all of Penn State's campuses. Please contact us.

What is information literacy?

Penn State's definition.

Information Literacy is gained progressively throughout a student's undergraduate career and beyond. Instructional Programs is committed to assisting in this process through a variety of instructional initiatives.

Why Instructional Programs?

"The Pennsylvania State University will develop world-class ... learners." Penn State's 1997 - 2001 Strategic Plan includes in its vision the goal of developing world-class learners. We see information literacy as a critical component of this vision.
Information Literacy is now part of the definition of General Education at Penn State.
Information Literacy standards have been endorsed by the American Association of Higher Education (AAHE), the Association of College and Research Libraries and other institutes for higher education.

About library instruction...

University Libraries offer a variety of instructional opportunities for Penn State students, faculty, staff and visitors.

Course-Related Instruction
Librarians will provide instruction for your class at your request to assist your students with their information gathering assignments.
Credit Instruction
The University Libraries offer a number of courses for credit through the Library Studies program.
Seminars
The University Libraries offers free seminars to help you learn to use the Libraries and online resources.
Tours
Tours of Pattee Library and Paterno Library are offered on a regular basis. To request tours of other Penn State libraries, please contact Instructional Programs or the librarians at that location.

Please address questions and comments to Instructional Programs.
This page was last updated February, 2004.