Integrating information literacy skills into academic summer programs for precollege students

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to describe the library instructional program that has been developed at the Z. Smith Reynolds Library at Wake Forest University to teach information literacy skills to elementary and high school students attending academic summer programs.Design/methodology/approachHistorical development of the instructional program is discussed and analyzed. This paper reflects on the importance of students who participate in summer programs having access to library resources including an orientation to the library.FindingsThe academic librarian is a prime player in reaching out to university staff responsible for coordinating summer enrichment programs on a college campus. The paper highlights the successes and lessons learned in coordinating instructional activities for elementary and high‐school students involved in summer camps and explores the benefits of these programs for students and librarians.Practical implicationsTeaching elementary and high school students how to conduct research in an academic library can be challenging. This paper serves as a guide to offer suggestions to other librarians interested in implementing programs and services for students enrolled in summer programs.Originality/valueAcademic libraries will find value in this paper's discussion on how to build effective partnerships with campus personnel to promote information literacy for school students who are involved in summer enrichment programs.