Research has shown that state virtual or digital libraries are evolving into websites that are loaded with free resources, subscription databases, and instructional tools. In this article, the author explores these evolving libraries based on the following questions: (1) How user-friendly are the state digital libraries?; (2) How do state digital…

Describes the Pathways to Knowledge model for helping students achieve information literacy in library media programs. Discusses the searcher's thinking, information search or seeking, and instructional strategies; information skills; the six stages in the model, including appreciation, presearch, search, interpretation, communication, and…

Explains how to develop lesson plans to help students become effective researchers using electronic searching tools. Uses a unit developed for Kansas landmarks to discuss information skills, competency standards, inquiry, technology use, information literacy and process skills, finding information, and an example of a research log. (LRW)

Discusses analytical searching, a process that enables searchers of electronic resources to develop a planned strategy by combining words or phrases with Boolean operators. Defines simple and complex searching, and describes search strategies developed with Boolean logic and truncation. Provides guidelines for teaching students analytical…

In presearch, students can develop an overview of a search topic; a graphic organizer in the form of a web can be used. The browse and hypertext features of electronic encyclopedias enable students to explore topics and develop search strategies. The information-gathering process should be holistic and nonlinear. (AEF)

Defines inquiry, a student-centered discovery process, and introduces Pathways to Knowledge(TM), an information process model that provides stages and strategies for anyone interested in gathering, using, and evaluating information. Describes the six stages of Pathways: Appreciation, Presearch; Search; Interpretation; Communication; and…

Provides a class activity that includes strategies for teachers and library media specialists to help students learn how to evaluate information. Includes the need to focus on specific information that is needed; developing research questions; the information gathering process; questioning; mind maps to help see relationships; and checking for…

As inquiry learning has begun to permeate all areas of the curriculum, educators and school librarians across the United States have employed information process models such as Pathways to Knowledge(R) to teach students how to effectively gather, evaluate, and use information, as well as develop their critical thinking skills. Following the…