CRD Conference Corner Volume 5

With only two days away from PaLA’s annual conference we will take one last look at sessions being sponsored by CRD this year.  These sessions revolve around the idea of the librarian as more than just a keeper of knowledge, and discuss how a librarian can be at the front of social activism, community service and campus inclusion.

Title: Unpeeling the Onion: Using Participatory Design Processes to Discover First Generation Students Experiences Using the Library

Presenters: Hailley Fargo, Student Engagement & Outreach Librarian, Penn State University, University Park
Steve Borrelli, Head of Library Assessment, Penn State University, University Park
Carmen Gass, User Services Training Coordinator, Penn State University, University Park
Elpidio De La Cruz, Student, Penn State University, University Park

Abstract: The University Library strives to make the library a place for everyone by keeping diversity and inclusion at the forefront of research and services. Intrigued by results of a 2016 Ithaka study of undergraduates which showed differences in use and perceptions of library services and resources of first generation students at Penn State University, researchers conducted a case study investigating the library experiences of first-generation students at the University Park campus. During the spring 2018 semester, researchers used a participatory design approach called “gamestorming” with a group of six first-generation students to discover their experiences in the library. Gamestorming is an approach where design activities are used to ideate through game play. The process allows for a group to get to know one another by first developing trust, then working together through the challenge space, discovering problems along the way. The process ends with evaluating ideas surfaced during the process. This presentation will describe the process of gamestorming, share results, insights, and lessons learned from this study, highlight the student experience from one of our first-generation student participant-researchers, and will give the audience a chance to try out a gamestorming activity that could be used with their library community.

Time: Tuesday, October 16th 2:15pm-3:30pm

 
Title: Bringing the Critical Librarianship Movement into the Classroom

Presenter: Samantha Bise-Schultz, Reference & Instruction Librarian, Central Penn College

Abstract: Have you heard of the Critical Librarianship movement and want to know what it’s all about? Are you part of the conversation already, but don’t know how to turn theory into practical instruction activities? Find out how librarians are linking their work as information literacy educators to social activism. Attend this session for a brief introduction to critical theory as it relates to librarianship and information literacy, suggested resources to get you involved in the Critical Librarianship conversation, and various critical instruction methods and activities. The presentation will be followed by a guided group discussion on ways librarians can turn critical librarianship theory into action to engage students as creators and users of information.

Time: Wednesday, October 17th 9:00am-10:00am

Title: What do Libraries Have To Do With the YMCA, Humane Society, Fair Trade, and Undergraduate Research?

Presenters: Jen Jones, Associate Professor and Department Coordinator, Communication, School of Business, Seton Hill University
Theresa R. McDevitt, Government Information/Outreach Librarian, Indiana University of PA Libraries
Amy Podoletz, Undergraduate Student, Communication, Seton Hill University

Abstract: New teaching practices, such as experiential learning and service-learning, are becoming more and more important on college campuses. This pedagogical approach leads to improved understanding and ability to apply theory, and also growth in areas like acceptance of diversity, increased compassion and caring for others, self-confidence, and growth in social responsibility and civic engagement. This session begins with win-win stories, written by librarians, university faculty and students who have successfully employed service based or experiential learning experiences for students in higher education. In each case, the course or educational event developers have intentionally included service to a partner, real work applications of theory, mutual benefit for all involved, and opportunities for thoughtful reflection. Presenters will describe activities, motivations, curriculum materials, and outcomes in enough detail to assist others in building upon their experience to bring this positive practice to their institutions. Participants in the session are then invited to share their own success stories in a welcoming and creative environment.

Time: Wednesday, October 17th 10:15am-11:30am