The San Diego State University Library offers a wide range of instruction, from basic orientation through highly specialized research guidance. Instruction sessions are designed to fit the specific needs, objectives, and timeframe of the course, and librarians work closely with the teaching faculty to develop the session. The Library offers classes for face-to-face instruction, hybrid format, online synchronous, and online asynchronous.

What is Library Instruction?

Our library instruction program promotes critical thinking and problem-solving in today's rich information environment. Our subject librarians strive to partner with you to develop uniquely tailored lesson plans suited to the disciplinary practices of your course. Library instruction is intended to meet the needs of your students as they grow and engage in the process of research. Below, you will find information about what to do before you bring your class to the library, and some of the other ways that our librarians can partner with you!

Student Self-Directed Learning

Librarians have created different materials to guide students through the process of research and related important resources. Students can access these materials on demand to diagnose learning needs, examine a variety of multimedia tools and resources, select appropriate learning strategies, and evaluate their own learning outcomes.

Specialized Library Instruction

SDSU Librarians offer specialized library instruction. These instruction sessions are intended for upper discipline courses such as courses in the upper 200s - 700s. Our General Library Instruction develops students' foundational research and information literacy skills. Our Specialized Library Instruction builds off what is taught earlier to helps students develop essential skills related to their discipline and other related areas.