By: Corianne Way
Virtual reference (via chat service) has been utilized in library for some time with great success. Now, some libraries are starting to offer virtual orientations for their libraries online via their website.
Library orientations are so important because they give the most basic instruction on how to use the library for new patrons. This is essential because many new users might be apprehensive about how to use a library--it can be intimidating. This is true especially in academic libraries where some incoming freshman have never used a library and they will need to learn how to do so in order to be successful academically.
According to Ingalls (2015) in her paper titled “Virtual Tours, Videos, and Zombies: The Changing Face of Academic Library Orientation” a library orientation should consist of these major components (p. 80):
• Layout of the library (orientation to the physical space)
• Use of the library website (orientation to the online space)
• Use of the catalogue
• Types of resources on offer
• Ways to find material
At its most basic level, a virtual library orientation would consist of a video tour of a library with instruction for how to use it, and a virtual map of the library to get students familiar with where things are located in the library. Some libraries will provide a short quiz at the end of their orientation to assess how well the instruction was and to get an idea of the students reaction to the tours (Ingalls, p.82).
Some libraries however, have taken virtual orientations to a whole new level. The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Melbourne, Australia for example, created an online game called “Library Amazing Race: Zombie Edition ONLINE” to attract students to the library, teaching them how to use it in a fun and interesting way. Students here battle zombies and learn about the library at the same time. California State University Fresno also provides an interactive game online involving puzzles and maps to orient students to the library.
Introduction to RMIT Zombie Library Orientation
The University of South Carolina Upstate created podcasts for their students to listen to on their own time, teaching them about the library.
School librarians can also make virtual library orientations for their libraries as well, as more and more children and learning how to use computers and YouTube. Kids could watch the videos with their parents at home or their teacher could show it on the projector in class.
Elementary School Library Orientation
Virutal library orientations are a great way to get students and patrons comfortable with using the library in an easy going and informal way!
Ingalls, D. (2015). Virtual Tours, Videos, and Zombies: The Changing Face of Academic Library Orientation. Canadian Journal Of Information & Library Sciences, 39(1), 79-90.
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