Information Literacy
Information Literacy can be defined as a set of abilities that enable users to discover, evaluate, and use information.
The five components of Information Literacy are Identify, Find, Evaluate, Apply, and Acknowledge.
Learn more about the 5 components HERE.
Why is it important?
- enable informed decision-making
- encourage the careful evaluation of information sources for bias and inaccuracy
- empowers users to learn for themselves
Articles
Books for Information Professionals
Resources
Evaluating for Authoritative Sources
Authoritative sources can be defined as pieces of information whose legitimacy is widely recognized by experts in the field. They are often categorized as recognized sources, scholarly sources, or credible news.
Resources for Evaluating Sources:
Use the following to help evaluate sources, including website, so you can continue to use credible and reliable sources.
When evaluating a source, keep in mind that the credibility depends on the type of information you are looking for and the reason you are looking for it.
FactCheck.org
A nonpartisan, nonprofit "consumer advocate" that aims to reduce the level of deception and confusion in U.S. politics.
Politifact
Fact-checking significant and newsworthy statements. Including transcripts, speeches, news stories, press releases, and social media.
Snopes
The oldest and largest fact-checking site online, widely regarded by journalists, folklorists, and readers as an invaluable research companion.
Tin Eye
Reverse image search. Find where images appear online to determine manipulation differences.
Evaluate your sources with the CRAAP Method:
Currency
- When was it published?
- Is the information up-to-date?
- How recently has the website been published?
Relevance
- Does the information relate to your task?
- Would you be comfortable specifying this source to others?
Authority
- Who is the author?
- Is the author qualified to write about this topic? (background, education, etc.)
- Is the publisher reputable?
Accuracy
- Is the information supported by evidence?
- Does the information match with information found in other reputable sources?
- Are there any spelling or grammatical errors?
Purpose
- Is the information presented objectively?
- Is the bias included?
- Are there any advertisements? (websites)
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Fake-Believe: An Introduction to Misinformation: 4-part non-credit online course from NorQuest to introduce students to concepts of misinformation and help them practice valuable critical thinking skills,
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Webinar: Media Literacy for Adults: Meeting Patrons Where They Are: People who need media literacy skills may not be eager to sign up for a program or class on the subject; in fact, they may not know their skills are lacking at all. In this webinar, Kristen Calvert of the Dallas Public Library and Amber Conger of Kershaw County Library in South Carolina will cover how library workers can meet the needs of their adult patrons and how to incorporate media literacy practices in existing programs and at the reference desk.
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Webinar: How to Save Ourselves From Disinformation: It spreads through social media and message boards. Through television pundits and talk radio. And in daily conversations, in every corner of the world. Disinformation can change minds and fuel movements. But is it an unstoppable force? How can we resist a torrent of falsehoods and distortions?
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Media Literacy (by Crash Course): A 12-part video series that goes beyond the typical media literacy topics, digging into things like the history of media literacy and how policy affects the media we consume.
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5 Essential Media Literacy Questions for Kids (by Common Sense Education): This super-short video explains five key things kids should consider to unpack media
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Media Minute Series (by MediaSmarts): This six-video series offers a quick overview of the key principles of media literacy.
Self-Published Materials
Peace Library System member public libraries aim to maintain a well-balanced collection of materials. This may include work from local authors who produce self-published work.
Information for Local Authors
If you are a local author looking to get your self-published work in a library, please contact the library directly. Peace Library System headquarters does not select physical collection items on behalf of member public libraries.
Note: it is at the discretion of public library staff on whether they include your self-published work in their collection.
Tips to increase the likelihood of your work being added to the library collection:
- Has significant local interest, with subject related to communities within the Peace Region
- Positive reviews in professional journals (Library Journal, Publisher's Weekly, Booklist, etc.)
- Has an ISBN (International Standard Book Number)
- Is suitable for circulation (professionally bound - no stapled work, no spiral-bound work)
- Has gone through a professional editor / proofreader
- Available through a major distributor (Baker & Taylor)
We recommend member public libraries include a information on local / self-published materials in their material selection policy. For more information, please contact the Consulting Department.
