Texas Tech University Library patrons may now access a library skills tutorial available both online and through an interactive CD-ROM. The online version is available at http://www.lib.ttu.edu/tutorial/index.htm.

The tutorial features color graphics, photos and text about how to use library resources. Visual icons electronically direct users to library departments offering more in-depth research assistance, such as reference, stacks, reserve, government documents and maps, as well as current periodicals and microforms.

The CD-ROM version is available at the reserve desk, and contains supplemental information plus interactive learning aids not available through the general online tutorial.

Margaret McCasland, Texas Tech Assistant Librarian, who created the tutorial with the aid of a "Texas Tech ... Fund 2005" grant, in describing the project said "The Texas Tech University Library has successfully integrated traditional print and electronic resources aimed at making library research more user friendly and accessible." The tutorial, she said, teaches students and patrons how to use the library and saves times by helping them find resources and identify their location before visiting the library.

Another advantage of the online tutorial is its capability of providing up-to-date information about holding locations. Texas Tech students are being impacted by the first phase of a three-year $17.4 million library renovation project that began this fall. Some materials will be temporarily relocated during various construction phases. By accessing the tutorial maps, patrons will know where these materials are temporarily housed.

Article adapted from a press release. Margaret McCasland, Assistant Librarian at Texas Tech University, is Chair of the RRT Publicity/Membership Committee.

• Jeanne Pyle jpyle@sfalib.sfasu.edu
• Will Stuivenga stuiveng@amigos.org