Preparing Librarians to Solve Problems Faced by International Students in American College and University Libraries

Abstract

International students face a number of challenges in using American college and university libraries. Most of the studies performed have cited the language and cultural difficulties international students must try to overcome, as well as the conditions of libraries, particularly in developing nations. In order to provide the best possible library environment for international students, American libraries and schools of library science should develop a combined approach to international student programs which includes a special course of bibliographic instruction, teaching strategies aimed toward international student's particular problems, and discussion of the cultural and communications issues inherent in library use by international students. Some of the solutions presented in this paper include (1) courses in comparative librarianship discussing the differences in libraries around the world, for both future and current librarians; (2) instruction providing awareness of the special needs of international students who are using both paper and electronic reference materials; (3) coordination of efforts with the English language learning center of the institution; (4) separate bibliographic instruction for foreign students, possibly by native speakers; (5) devotion of additional time and effort by individual librarians to international students; and (6) special workshops for reference librarians discussing the cultural and communication needs of international students. Such programs benefit librarians, student librarians, and international students while making limited demands on library budgets. This paper also provides a setting for trainers who wish to help practitioners serve a diverse audience.