PROGRAM SUMMARY
This Professional Development supports the mission of the John Hope & Aurelia E. Franklin Library by strengthening participants’ information literacy, historical research, and archival engagement skills. Through hands-on sessions in the library’s computer lab, participants will gain guided experience using library research tools, archival databases, and digital resources while contributing to research and exhibit-based public history initiatives connected to Fisk University’s institutional and Civil Rights legacy.
This PD opportunity runs throughout the Spring 2026 semester and emphasizes research confidence, source evaluation, archival interpretation, and collaborative learning.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES
Participants will:
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Develop foundational and advanced information literacy skills using library databases and research platforms
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Learn effective strategies for locating, evaluating, and organizing scholarly and historical sources
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Gain guided exposure to archival research practices related to Fisk University history and Civil Rights–era materials
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Explore introductory principles of visual storytelling and exhibit-based research presentation
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Strengthen documentation and citation practices for academic and public-facing projects
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Engage collaboratively in research discussions and applied learning activities
SESSION FORMAT & SCHEDULE
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Location: Basement Computer Lab (near IT), John Hope & Aurelia E. Franklin Library
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Meeting Times: Tuesdays & Thursdays at 3:00 PM (see schedule below, adjusted with inclement weather dates & holidays)
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Frequency: Twice per month
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Program Dates:
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Began 1)Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 (passed)
2)Thursday, February 26th, 2026 (passed)
3)Tuesday, March 17th, 2026
4)Thursday, March 26th, 2026
5)Tuesday, April 7th, 2026
6)Thursday, April 16th, 2026 (final session=last day of instruction)
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Participants may attend an individual session to earn a Professional Development hour.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES DEVELOPED
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Information literacy and database navigation (A-Z)
Lib Answers? Usage
Catalogue searches: Primo (how to search general collection/stacks)
ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
This Professional Development series in the lab is facilitated by Dr. Jessica Hanson, Assistant to the Librarian for Access Services.
