Information Literacy

What is information literacy? | Library of Congress numbers | using/evaluating resources | citing | ready references

What is Information Literacy?

Definition of Information Literacy
From Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL)

Information literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.

Information Literacy refers to a set of competencies and includes:

• determining the nature and extent of needed information;
• accessing information effectively and efficiently;
• evaluating critically information and its sources;
• incorporating selected information in the learner's knowledge base and value system;
• using information effectively to accomplish a specific purpose;
• understanding the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information and information technology; and
• observing laws, regulations, and institutional policies related to the access and use of information

Updated:  9/14/09