“We’re Gonna Figure This Out”: First-Generation Students and Academic Libraries

Abstract

Although extensive research has looked at first-generation college students' experiences, very little has examined the role of the library. This article reports the results of an asset-based exploratory study understanding the experiences of first-generation college students at three universities. Key findings of this study focus on themes of self-advocacy, sense of belonging, library customization, and integration of the library with the larger campus. This article discusses these key themes in the context of improving library services and spaces, ultimately providing more inclusive resources for all student groups. Implications and recommendations for professional practice are discussed.

Insights on first-generation students’ development of social capital for the rigours of college-level research

“…Of note, none of the CGS selected these agents. This FGS leaning aligns with Brinkman et al (2013) and Couture et al (2021) who find that they tend to look outside the libraries for research help. Brinkman et al (2013) state that they turn to "working-class university staff such as bus drivers, custodians, and cafeteria servers as another source of information and support" (p. 647).…”

“…The library and information science (LIS) literature covers FGS' perceptions of libraries and librarians (Borrelli et al, 2018;Brinkman et al, 2013;Couture et al, 2021;LeMire et al, 2021a;Long, 2011;Pickard & Logan, 2013) as well as acquisition and assessment of their IL skills (Graves et al, 2021;LeMire et al, 2021b;Quiñonez & Olivas, 2020). Borrelli et al (2018) look at changes in FGS perceptions of library personnel over time.…”

“…Library layouts and jargon in signage and multiple libraries on campus also led to frustration and consequently, lack of library use (Brinkman et al 2013). Couture et al (2021) also find that FGS seek research help from outside the libraries including "professors, advisers, and other students" (p. 135). Tsai (2012) looks at course-related information behaviour of FGS and notes that, while the library lands on their information horizon in general, some students only turn to library resources when it is a class requirement.…”

“…Thus, a funds of knowledge approach to FGS in libraries is underscored. Couture et al (2021), in looking at FGS experience of academic libraries at 3 institutions, state that, "It is not FGS who are deficient and in need of intervention, but rather libraries and library employees that must strive to reduce barriers and improve access" (p. 142). Furthermore, Quiñonez and Olivas (2020) recommend validation theory as a means to engage Latinx FGS in the IL classroom to develop student scholar identity.…”

Exploring belonging through photovoice: examining the impact of space design on diverse student populations in an academic library

“…Couture et al . found that “Students indicated their use of the library space was related to whether they felt welcomed and respected as individuals, including their identities as FGS [first-generation students] and all their intersecting identities.” (2021).…”