Librarians who embed in science and engineering departments have a natural advantage to provide more tailored service to STEM students than their colleagues sitting behind a reference desk.
As noted in the report, Models of Embedded Librarianship, the embedded librarian “becomes a member of the customer community rather than a service provider standing apart.” (Shumaker & Talley, 2009) Embedded librarians can better validate that resources are appropriately matched to students’ learning requirements and bring library services directly into the classroom. For those librarians directly engaging with STEM learners, here are five tips to help smooth the transition from the library to the classroom:
The embedded librarian “becomes a member of the customer community rather than a service provider standing apart.”
Embedded Means Integrated and Engaged
It’s important that teaching faculty introduce embedded librarians to students as co-instructors and treat them as such. All parties involved should view the embedded librarian as a dedicated resource. The successful embedded librarian needs to develop a nuanced understanding of students’ research needs as well as the science and engineering concepts that students will be expected to learn over the course of the semester. Embedded librarians are well-positioned to poll students throughout the semester to benchmark their progress in reaching learning objectives and gain useful feedback to share with teaching faculty.
Treat Labs Differently from Classroom Learning
Embedded librarians also need to understand what experiments students will be expected to design and conduct using applied learning techniques. Some questions to consider: will students be assigned flipped classroom homework in order to learn methods and how to operate specific lab equipment proficiently? Do students need specialized learning tools that can better prepare them to tackle lab assignments?
Help Steer Class Design … Just for Starters
Embedded librarians can have a significant impact helping to design course pages within the academic institution’s learning management system (Moodle, Blackboard, etc.). He or she is in a great position to craft research guides (LibGuides) and other reference materials, as well as recommend instructional videos. But why stop there? The embedded librarian’s contributions are potentially endless - from providing guidance on data management to leading sessions on information literacy and proper citation methods.
Coordinate Your Move to the Classroom
Figure out who will fill any resulting gaps in library services as the embedded librarian steps away from the reference desk and into the classroom. Work with your Library Director to clearly delineate workflow procedures and responsibilities between the embedded librarian and the main library. Flexibility and clear communication are key!
Remember to promote LaaS (Library as a Service)
Be mindful to market what librarians can offer students and faculty, and when. Make the most of in-person interactions, participate in departmental events, volunteer to serve on committees and churn out a steady stream of email, blogs and newsletters touting your service. Never miss an opportunity to educate your specialized patrons about the full complement of services that you offer!
Stay Up-to-Date with Librarian Trends & Techniques
sign up for our librarian newsletter