Critical information literacy topics, programs, and lessons

CHICAGO — Through its focus on questioning who creates information, addressing algorithmic biases, and advocating for the inclusion of marginalized voices, critical information literacy (CIL) can serve a vital function in navigating our complicated world. “Critical Information Literacy Applications for All Libraries,” published by ALA Editions, moves beyond academic settings to uplift voices from across the field. Editors Julie N. Hornick and Lauren Kehoe spotlight contributors from public, school, and academic settings who explore CIL topics, programs, and lessons that all librarians can adopt and adapt for their particular needs. Readers will:

• learn practical approaches for integrating CIL into instruction and praxis regardless of their level of experience;
• gain tools to better engage with the complexities of today's information landscape and empower their communities to do the same;
• be introduced to the theoretical frameworks of CIL through chapters that take a historical look at critical race theory in academic library instruction, CIL and feminist critique, and the intersection of queer pedagogy and CIL;
• discover in-depth profiles of programs happening in various library types, from algorithmic literacy and a targeted wiki-edit-a-thon event to an outreach initiative targeting groups historically excluded from post-secondary education;
• receive guidance on introducing CIL concepts to their peers and coworkers through professional development programs, such as introducing CIL practices into K-12 school culture, a CIL skills instruction program developed by public librarians to serve the everyday needs of information consumers, and a zine-making exercise for practicing reflection that embodies CIL; and
• find ready-to-use lesson plans and outlines, with suggestions on tailoring them to a variety of library types.

Hornick (she/her) is the head of library instruction at Florida Southern College and provides instructional and research support to a number of schools and departments. Professionally, she has chaired the LIRT President’s Program Committee and the ACRL Instruction Section’s Teaching Methods Committee, in addition to serving on the executive board of the Florida Association of College and Research Libraries. Kehoe (she/her) is the head of research engagement at University of Central Florida Libraries. Previously, she served as the accessibility and accommodations librarian at NYU Libraries and the undergraduate instruction and outreach librarian at NYU, where she led a university-wide initiative to make a community zine in response to the NYU Reads common-reading program.

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