Using semi-structured interviews of faculty in literature, culture, and writing studies at a large public research university, this study investigates their research practices to help rethink disciplinary dimensions of information literacy. Findings showed a strong social dimension to their information-seeking practices and a reliance on informal methods. Themes that emerged were disciplinary perspectives, browsing and serendipity, colleagues and community, limitations in access and time constraints, and informal research training. The authors discuss implications for instruction, including ways in which librarians might demystify humanities research for graduate and upper level undergraduate students.
Ithaka S+R provides research and strategic guidance to help the academic and cultural communities serve the public good and navigate economic, demographic, and technological change. Ithaka S+R is part of ITHAKA, a not-for-profit organization that works to advance and preserve knowledge and to improve teaching and learning through the use of digital technologies. Artstor, JSTOR, and Portico are also part of ITHAKA.
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