Time Schedule:
Cassandra J Hartnett
LIS 526
Seattle Campus
Introduction to government publications of the United States and their acquisition, organization, and use. Other topics covered include the public's right to know, the Federal Depository Library Program, government influences in our daily lives, and future directions in government information. Credit/no credit only.
Class description
In LIS526, we learn both old and new practices of retrieval and discuss theories and philosophies of government information. By the end of the course, students should possess the vocabulary, knowledge of core resources, and general background needed to begin work in a government documents unit or for a government information provider. Students should also be able to explain fundamental issues concerning access to government information. We seek to gain an understanding of government produced information, including its unique place in the world of information, its important role in society, its relationship to the structure of government, and the processes by which it is produced and disseminated.
Student learning goals
To use major bibliographic tools, databases, and specific search strategies to locate U.S. government information.
To gain an understanding of government produced information, including its unique place in the world of information, its important role in society, its relationship to the structure of government, and the processes by which it is produced and disseminated.
To consider the responsibilities and roles of the U.S. government, other government jurisdictions and libraries in providing public access to government information.
To examine the use of government information by particular constituencies.
To gain expertise in specific types of research using federal sources, such as tracing legislative history, finding government produced statistics, and submitting FOIA requests.
To think critically as librarians specializing in government information.
General method of instruction
Lecture, discussion, in-class exercises.
Recommended preparation
N/A
Class assignments and grading
Eight graded assignments, including weekly exercises, and a final project (with poster session).
Credit/ non-credit class. Incomplete work will result in non-credit.
