PROGRAM SUMMARY
This ongoing Professional Development series 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
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Frequency: Twice per month
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Program Dates:
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Begins Tuesday, January 27, 2026
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Continues through Thursday, April 16, 2026 (last day of instruction)
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Participants may attend individual sessions or complete the full series to earn Professional Development hours.
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES DEVELOPED
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Information literacy and database navigation
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Archival research awareness and source evaluation
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Organizational and citation management skills
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Introductory digital design and visual research presentation (training provided)
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Collaborative research communication
ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
This Professional Development series is facilitated by Dr. Jessica Hanson, Assistant to the Librarian for Access Services.
