September 30, 2005

Library Classroom Upgraded

The Library Classroom, located on the 2nd floor, has been given a much-needed facelift. Among the changes: fifteen new desks and upgraded computers. The classroom is used for library instruction and training, and is an invaluable tool for research-oriented classes. Students are shown strategies for searching, and are taught how to locate and identify scholarly materials. Faculty interested in library-related instruction and training for their students are encouraged to contact their liaison librarian.

September 08, 2005

Need Help? Try hathelp!

Looking for assistance with a tough question? First time in a research class? The Hatfield Library is here to help. Beginning this term, the Hatfield Library is offering reference service via instant messenger. Help is available through AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), Yahoo Messenger, and MSN Messenger, under the username "hathelp."

In addition, reference help remains available through email at library@willamette.edu, phone (503-370-6560), and in person at the reference desk. Also, in-depth research consultations on a specific subject are available by contacting our librarians. Each of these services may be used during normal reference hours.

September 06, 2005

GamePlan Kicks Off

Starting this fall, through a collaborative effort by librarian Bill Kelm and Willamette University head football coach Mark Speckman, a new program is being offered to incoming freshman football players. The goal of the program is to establish for freshman the information literacy elements that they will need to be successful in college and as lifelong learners.

The eight week program uses examples and motivational techniques geared toward athletes to introduce such topics as basic research strategies, how to find materials in the library, to even citation building search strategies for the web.

The program, modeled after similar programs at the University of Washington and Michigan State helps to incorporate information literacy across programs and services throughout the life of the University.