Informal Field-Based Learning in Librarianship: A Case Study Applying the CAM-OS Framework to Library Guide Construction

Abstract

Activities such as library guide creation and maintenance can take a large amount of our time without supplying evidence that the time spent is effective or worthwhile. Usage statistics and feedback are one avenue for gauging the impact of a guide, but we overlook another benefit if we focus solely on the user. By applying Tannenbaum and Wolfson’s (2022) CAM-OS framework, we can bring greater intention to tasks that foster informal learning opportunities and harness them to advance librarians’ competencies. A case study of overhauling a library guide on copyright is used to demonstrate and apply the framework.

Keywords

• informal learning
• professional development
• library guides