Exploration 1: Purpose for Using Library Resources

Understanding Goal Understanding Goal

Library patrons use different materials for different reasons.

Investigative Question Investigative Question

Why do people go to LOC.gov?

Patron Actions:

  1. Brainstorm reasons why people go to the library on a written list. For example:
    • Find a book
    • Get tax forms
    • Attend story time
    • Use a computer
    • Research a topic
    • Attend presentation
    • Look at an exhibit
    • Ask for help on a project
    • Borrow a DVD
    • Browse the collection
  2. Compare the list of reasons for going to the library with the links on the home page at LOC.gov to answer the questions, "Where would you click to go to the things normally found at a library?" and "What on this home page is not normally found at the library?"

    LOC Homepage

  3. Discuss reasons why people are patrons at LOC.gov, the world’s largest library. What might this tell you about the organization of the Library’s Web site?