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MCC Daily Tribune

Myth Busters: The Surprising Truth About College Libraries

As faculty and staff, you are likely aware that many students hold misconceptions about the role college libraries play in their academic lives, This, then, may prevent them from taking advantage of the vast resources and services MCC Libraries provides. Below are two such common myths about college libraries and research unveiled in a 2018 study published in the peer-reviewed journal, Communications in Information Literacy.

Myth #1: “I should do my research without assistance”

One of the most persistent myths about college libraries is that students should be able to do research independently, without seeking help from librarians or other experts, and this is especially prevalent among first year students who often feel intimidated by the research process. However, the reality is that college libraries are staffed with knowledgeable librarians eager to help students navigate the vast sea of information available to them. Whatever the need, i.e. research strategies, identifying credible and relevant sources, or understanding how to use databases, MCC librarians are always ready to lend a hand; help is just a question away!

Myth #2: “Libraries are only places to get books or study”

Another myth: college libraries are only useful for checking out books or finding a place to study. There is so much more! Today’s college libraries are high-tech hubs of information, providing students access to scholarly e-resources and digital collections that are not available for free through Google. With library databases and discovery tools such as MCC Libraries’ OneSearch, students can find and access information from anywhere, at any time--encourage them to think beyond the bookshelves and explore the innumerable resources available to them.

We can all dispel the myths that our students have about college libraries. To start, ask your classes to complete College Researchers’ Library Navigator badge in Brightspace and encourage them to schedule a research consultation with a librarian for one-on-one assistance. By encouraging students to take advantage of the expertise of MCC librarians, we can help them make the most of their MCC experience and succeed in their academic pursuits together. 

Hinchliffe, L. J., Rand, A., & Collier, J. (2018). Predictable Information Literacy Misconceptions of First-Year College Students. Communications in Information Literacy, 12 (1), 4-18. Retrieved from Communications in Information Literacy.

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Alice Wilson
Library
02/01/2023