Librarian Instruction as a Form of Student Mentorship

Librarian Instruction as a Form of Student Mentorship

Lin, Amy

2026-05-14

eng

Presentation

In an era where generative AI often mediates the researcher’s experience, the human connection within the library is vital. While digital tools offer efficiency, they cannot replicate the "intrinsic expertise" and guidance that define the relationship between a librarian and a student. To truly center relationships, we must shift from being mere information providers to becoming collaborative research partners. Drawing on experiences from the University of Detroit Mercy Law Library, this proposal explores how physical accessibility and credit-bearing instruction serve as primary conduits for building an academic community. I will discuss how "soft forms of mentorship" and open-door policies transform the library into an inviting, familiar space. By prioritizing face-to-face engagement and student mentorship, librarians can move beyond technical support. This session provides strategies for using instruction as outreach, ensuring librarians remain indispensable to their institutions through the personal connections they forge.