The title of this blog is inspired by an article of the same title, written by Wendy Robicheau for the March issue of the APLA Bulletin, available here: http://apla.ca/?q=75/3.robicheau

What is Archival Information Literacy

Archival Information Literacy (hereafter AIL) is the process of educating researchers to understand and use primary sources effectively.  While outreach and public programming raises awareness of original documents, AIL goes further to teach research skills using primary sources.  Understanding and using primary sources during the research process can build and enhance students’ aptitude for doing qualitative, quantitative, and historical research in addition to expanding their learning experience.  When reinforced with assignments and research tools, students can develop research skills, practice them in the archives, and apply them to any discipline.  A review of the literature indicates that archivists have not embraced information literacy at the same rate as librarians.  Many articles focus on defining the concept of information literacy rather than on the practice of information literacy. 

At present, the Archives at Acadia is providing students with a unique learning experience; however, that opportunity is limited.  AIL sessions have been offered since 2007 at the request of individual faculty members.  The inter-disciplinary nature of the Archives’ holdings makes it a fertile space to examine ways to increase utilization of the Archives through class visits and tailored assignments.