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Morris Library Explorer is a Web-based interactive multimedia library instructional package created at Morris Library at Southern Illinois University. Explorer consists of a frequently asked questions data file, a resource selection aid, a virtual tour of the library, and a tutorials section, so that it may be used for library orientation and to provide "just-in-time" basic reference service. Explorer may be accessed at any time and from any location, making it useful for distant learners and on-campus students while allowing for self-paced study. Effective use of technology enabled cross-departmental collaboration in Explorer's development and ongoing maintenance.
As at many academic libraries, the beginning of the semester at Morris Library at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale is a busy time, due in part to faculty requests for library orientation workshops. These workshops take many forms. Some professors simply want their students to tour the building, whereas others request that librarians outline and demonstrate key resources. Workshop leaders may also try to answer common questions about circulation policies or library hours. Students also may come with assignments designed to teach them how to use the library without requiring workshop participation.
The observations of librarians at Morris Library agree with Varner, Schwartz, and George's (1996) conclusion that students, especially new students, have mixed reactions to these orientation workshops. Some are overwhelmed by the amount of material or by the number of handouts. Some are frankly bored and see no value in learning material that they consider irrelevant.
Librarians also tend to be ambiguous about the value of traditional workshops. While workshops have the advantage of reaching large groups of students at one time and allow librarians to control what content is presented to students, some librarians prefer one-to-one "just-in-time" sessions with students. Eadie (1992) noted that students working on course assignments have more motivation to learn and retain material. There are problems with the one-to-one approach. Reference staff may not be available when students come to the library. Students may prefer to do most of their research from home or from on-campus offices. Distant learners may not have the opportunity to make use of either workshops or one-to-one in-person reference encounters.
To address these concerns, a team of librarians and staff developed the Morris Library Explorer...