WebJunction

Databases: Get the Word Out
February 4, 2008

Do you call them research tools, databases, or e-sources? Are they organized by subject area or alphabetized by database name? No matter how your library provides these services, advertising their presence is critical to increasing usage.

Word of mouth through individual interactions is certainly a great way to acquaint patrons with e-sources, but a supplemental introductory workshop can take it one step further. Organize classes according to user group, such as high school students or Spanish-speakers, or by database topic, such as genealogy or medicine.

Begin with refining your existing skills:

• Using Databases - This in-depth course addresses ways in which librarians can conduct successful and meaningful research in their library's electronic databases.
• Business & News Resources on the Web - This practical course offers strategies for locating and searching free and low-cost alternatives to subscription-based business and company information aggregators.

Create training workshops:

• Developing Computer Classes for Patrons is a must-read for developing a winning curriculum for technical training. Featured in this thoughtful compilation of resources are two discussion board topics:
  • Building Library Training Programs - What does your community recommend as the best methods?
  • What's Hot and What's Not - This thread has some great suggestions for securing high attendance at your e-sources workshops.

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