Mission

The DiMenna-Nyselius Library is committed to the educational mission of Fairfield University and the development of lifelong learners through our instruction. We focus on the education of the whole person through a student-centered approach to instruction that encourages curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and intellectual exploration.

We encourage the development of information literate global citizens through strong partnerships with faculty, our central position within the academic community, and by fostering a caring and supportive learning environment. Our instruction focuses on individual student learning, encouraging students to challenge themselves, and fostering an increasing capacity for critical thinking and self-reflection. Through our adherence to the ALA Code of Ethics we promote academic integrity, social responsibility, and the ethical use of information. Students are encouraged to engage with the world of scholarship through the creation and sharing of knowledge as well as the identification and use of quality information that best suits their information needs.

Policies & Procedures

The DiMenna-Nyselius Library’s instruction program provides course-based instruction and workshops to faculty and students both in person and online. Librarians work with faculty to develop lesson plans that support course objectives and programmatic learning outcomes for students in that course and program. Faculty are encouraged to begin planning and scheduling library instruction early in order to get the most from their collaborations with the library. Instruction requests and requests for course guides should be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of any desired date.

Faculty engagement is essential for student learning. Professors are required to attend class during library instruction sessions and are strongly encouraged to work with librarians to develop appropriate assignments and lesson plans.

Questions or requests can be directed to the Teaching & Learning Coordinator, Matt Schirano at mschirano@fairfield.edu or ext. 2587.