Information Seeking at Your Library

There are several different ways you can come to the library and seek information. There are those people who know what they need. They can search on the catalog if they choose because they know which words they need to find the item. They also can go to a librarian and describe exactly what they need.

However, many adults, teens, and children do not always know exactly what they need. We will call this group “explorers”. Explorers have an idea of what they want, but cannot exactly locate the book. Sometimes by searching the catalog and trying different ways they can make new discoveries.

The third group includes those that really don’t know what they need. They search for information without a particular goal. And, the last group are those who are trying to find an item again, but do not remember how to find it. This group needs to ask a librarian for help.

One good way to get children to become independent and good information seekers is to help them use the catalog. They can search by title, author, subject, and keywords. They can narrow their selections down to branches, items, popularity, dates, etc. Another way of helping them is to get them to understand that the librarian is available for them to answer their questions and find whatever they may need. Although some kids may be shy, librarians at your Santa Clarita Public Libraries really love to help kids, and love it when they smile after finding a treasured item! Please know that librarians would rather be busy helping people than to not have anyone to help.

Sometimes children and parents are in a rush and do not have time to look for items. Another way to find information is to look at the catalog at home or the library and place holds. Someone else will search for the item for you! Databases are great resources for homework or other needs and some of them even have books online that you can instantly access on your computer.

There are many different ways of seeking information. There is no right or wrong way. Browsing is free just like window shopping. However please know that you and your children, or students, will always have someone to assist you when you need it at the library no matter what your style is!

The following books may help with your digital literacy information seeking curiosity.