Students research the library: Using student-led ethnographic research to examine the changing role of campus libraries

Monday, 23 May 2011 8:04:20 p.m.

What do we know about student experiences of the library and their changing needs? Is it possible to capture that kind of information as it emerges in our libraries and use it to modify our services and activities? We contend that not only is it possible, but it is necessary that libraries develop enhanced capacities to sense the changing information landscape and possess the capacity to change with it. The future of academic libraries may depend on it.

New information technologies have changed undergraduate students’ college experience, including their research and information needs and practices. Facing the decentralization of information and resources, academic libraries are attempting to reconfigure their role on campus, modify their collections and physical spaces, and enhance the technological skills of staff in order to meet new needs of students.

Go to source:http://crln.acrl.org/content/current