Librarian how-to
How to Teach Students to Evaluate Sources
Evaluating sources is a lifelong skill.
Quick answer
Evaluating sources is a lifelong skill. In short: explain; teach; compare, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Explain why evaluation matters.
Teach checks: author, date, purpose and evidence.
Compare reliable and unreliable sources.
Practice with real examples.
Have students explain their choices.
Apply to their projects.
Safety reminders for librarians
- Protect patron privacy
- Follow emergency procedures
- Lift boxes of books properly
- Maintain a safe, welcoming space
Key terms
Reference interview · Collection development · Cataloging · Dewey Decimal System · Library of Congress Classification · ILS: see the full librarian glossary.