Marketing academic library resources and information services to international students from Asia

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to suggest strategies for marketing academic library resources and information services to Asian international students. Compared with those from a Western culture, those students are not as knowledgeable about the library resources and information services in an academic setting. Design/methodology/approach The paper describes the strategies for marketing academic library resources and information services to Asian international students and the challenges faced by reference librarians dealing with Asian international students. It looks also at what information literacy programs and activities are suitable to accommodate the information needs of Asian international students and what teaching methodology should be used. The paper draws upon the author's personal experiences and observations as an International Students Information Librarian who works closely with international students. Surveys were used to find out whether Asian international students had experiences of using academic libraries; and whether they are aware of the services and resources available for their study in a Western academic setting. Findings Academic libraries need to market their services and resources proactively to Asian international students who are not familiar with the services and resources in a Western academic library. Reference librarians need to consider these learners' characteristics, language proficiency, learning styles and their subjects of interests so that the teaching methodology and examples used are effective with these students. Originality/value The paper adds value to the body of literature on information literacy programs and information services for international students, who are totally alien to the Western academic environment.

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