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Course Requirements
for
LIBR 56: Computers in Libraries
Karen Saginor


Course Content:
This course explores the functions of computers in libraries: what computers are used to do, how they work, and how the automation of library services impacts library users. Students will learn the basic components of Integrated Library Systems, how to analyze and chart library processes, analyze Library catalogs and various search engines, and how to assess the implications of automated services on library technicians and users.

Prerequisite for LIBR 56:
The prerequisite for this course is LIBR51: Introduction to the Use of Libraries. LIBR 56 starts with the presumption that you already posses skills and information that are taught in LIBR 51. To begin LIBR 56, you should already be familiar with the general functions of libraries, how the online catalog works, searching strategies for periodical indexes and the web, and how to conduct research.
If you have not completed LIBR51 before starting LIBR56, but have already acquired the familiarity you will need for this course through library employment or other library experiences, then you may take LIBR 51 concurrently with LIBR 56.

LIBR 56 OR LIBR57 is a required course for the Award of Achievement in Library Information Technology.
You may take either LIBR 56 OR LIBR 57. You do not need to take both.
You need a grade of C or better to fulfill the requirement for the Award of Achievement. If you get a D or an F in any course at City College, you may repeat the course to replace that grade. The college catalog says, "when a student repeats a course because of a substandard grade (D, F or NC), the original grade will not be used in calculating the student's CCSF grade point average."

Attendance:
This course meets one day every week. Since there is no textbook and much of the material that is presented in class is not covered in the readings, you are expected to attend 90% of the class meetings. If you are absent for more than two class meetings, you may be withdrawn from the course.

Structure:
Reading assignments, class lectures and homework assignments are co-ordinated to focus on the topics of the course. Tests are given every three weeks. Tests are cumulative, covering material from the beginning of the course. There will be no midterm or final exam.

What happens when?
This calendar shows the dates for all reading assignments, homework assignments, and tests. Any changes made to the calendar over the course of the semester will be posted there.

Homework Assignments:
Homework assignments are an essential part of the course. Be sure to schedule enough time for yourself to complete these assignments. You must turn in the assignments on time in order to get credit for your work. See the calendar for the schedule of when homework assignments are due. You will not receive credit for late work. Homework assignments are contained in a packet available from Copy Edge (see below) The first homework assignment is also posted on the web at http://hills.ccsf.edu/~ksaginor/56h1.htm.

Required homework assignment packet:
Saginor, Karen, LIBR 56 Packet of Exercises, etc.
This has a green cover. It is available at CopyEdge, 1508 Ocean Avenue (just past Miramar) The price is $6.00.
CopyEdge is open Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
    and on Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
You will also need a three ring binder.
There will be a copy of the LIBR 56 Packet on Reserve at the Rosenberg Library.

Reading:
Frequent, short reading assignments, up to twenty pages per week. Some reading assignments are available online, and some will require you to use print materials on reserve for this course. Aside from the packet of exercises, there is nothing to buy for this course. For a schedule of when readings should be done, see the calendar.

Lecture notes:
You are expected to take notes on the class lectures and study them prior to tests. When you are absent from class, you should consult with other students to find out what you missed.

Tests:
There will be six tests over the course of the semester. There will be no make-ups for missed tests. You will be graded on five tests. If you take all six tests, your lowest grade will not be counted. If you miss two tests because of illness or some other excused absence then you will be graded on four tests. If you miss three tests you will be dropped from the course.

No Exams:
There is no midterm exam or final exam

EMail:
You need to supply an email address so that you can receive notices of changes or additional materials in a timely manner. If you do not already have an email account, please see the instructor for assistance in setting one up. You will be expected to check this account for messages on a regular basis.

Grading policies


LIBR 56: Computers in Libraries


This page last updated 13 January 2006