Claire McGuinness. The Academic Teaching Librarian’s Handbook. London, UK: Facet Publishing, 2021. 279p. Paper, $76.33 (ISBN 978-1-78330-462-2).

Abstract

In The Academic Teaching Librarian’s Handbook , Claire McGuinness, faculty in the School of Information and Communication Studies at the University College Dublin, offers comprehensive insights into different topics that are relevant to instruction librarians. These topics include the changing context of information literacy, social media and the rise of “fake news,” digital learning, and professional identity. The author also discusses the value of an articulated personal teaching philosophy, the importance of self-analysis and self-reflection, developing a teaching role as a new instruction librarian, and leadership and advocacy skills. McGuinness’ academic narrative style, set to small black font, is supported by a wide array of citations and data from reports and surveys. In addition, each topic offers “personal reflection points” along with figures and tables that highlight important details. The chapters conclude with exercises inviting readers to reflect on the content covered through different hypothetical scenarios.