Office of Information Literacy
The Office of Information Literacy supports the educational mission of Texas A&M University and the University Libraries by promoting student success and lifelong learning through integration of information literacy (IL) into the curriculum. Our programs emphasize critical thinking and ensure that students develop essential skills in evaluating, analyzing, integrating, and ethically using information from a variety of sources, across disciplines and degree programs, as outlined in the University's Student Learning Outcomes.
What is information literacy?
Information literacy is a skill that is built over time. A student’s IL skill set progresses throughout their educational career and life as their research needs become more complex.
It can be defined as “The ability to know when there is a need for information, to be able to identify, locate, evaluate, and effectively and responsibly use and share that information for the problem at hand.” (From the AAC&U Value Rubric)
Information literacy is an umbrella term encompassing all types of literacy, including AI literacy, media literacy, digital literacy, and visual literacy, among others.
Learn more about the TAMU Student Learning Outcomes and the University Libraries’ Student Learning Outcomes
Getting Started
QuickStart Menu
This is a continuously evolving, centralized repository of adaptable instruction materials, including lessons, active learning activities, rubrics, and modules. This resource packages core information literacy concepts and teaching strategies, providing faculty with a practical starting point for integrating information literacy knowledge and skills into their curriculum.
Customized Information Literacy Learning
This program delivers tailored, course-based instruction designed to support coursework with high information literacy needs. This may take the form of library instruction, tutorials, or “quick tip” infographic design, emphasizing the development of foundational information literacy skills, particularly in cornerstone, capstone, and Writing & Communication-designated courses. Please reach out to us if you’re interested in collaborating on customized learning needs for your class.
Curriculum Design
We aim to deepen students' engagement with information literacy, broaden programmatic integration, and strengthen connections to university student learning outcomes related to critical thinking by strategically scaffolding information literacy across disciplines and degree programs. Librarian participation in curriculum design promotes integration of essential skills in evaluating, analyzing, and integrating information from a variety of sources to support academic success. Reach out to us if you are interested in learning more about integrating information literacy across a degree plan or in collaborating with us on program redesign.
Information Literacy Academy for Graduate Students
Our workshops help graduate students further develop their information literacy skills, enhancing both their research and teaching abilities. Students may engage with workshops as a series or as standalone offerings, often for Grad Aggies credit. These workshops can also be requested by graduate student groups and organizations and tailored to their needs.
Information Literacy Academy for Faculty
Our workshops for faculty provide participants with practical knowledge to deepen their understanding of information literacy and integrate it into their curriculum. These workshops will enhance your ability to implement bite-sized adjustments to support student research skill development. If you are interested in collaborating with us to design a targeted information literacy-focused workshop or bringing our existing workshops directly to your faculty, please reach out to us.
