Search engines are an essential tool for finding information online. As with most tools, the more you know about how to use them effectively, the better results you can have.
PLA and Google know that library staff are trusted facilitators and guides in boosting these information literacy skills. With growing challenges rooted in misinformation, this role is only becoming more important. Building on a 2022 Super Searchers pilot with Public Libraries 2030 and Google, PLA is extending the brief and effective training to help equip more busy library staff with tools to help patrons search more efficiently and critically engage online information.
The Super Searchers training and toolkit provide resources for Google users to understand the context that surrounds what they find when searching the Web. Built on work developed by University of Washington researcher Mike Caulfield, this can be a useful resource for library workers as they perform their own duties and help patrons think critically about the information they consume. PLA presents the toolkit here along with additional context and resources for library workers.
We want to hear from you! How do you engage patrons regarding misinformation? Do you have stories to share—positive or negative? Send your anecdotes or questions to project coordinator Toby Greenwalt.
Super Searchers Toolkit
Google has prepared a slide deck for library workers to guide colleagues and patrons through the Super Searchers program. This includes a breakdown of core information literacy context as well as overview of the new information evaluation tools built into Google Search.
- “Welcome Super Searchers” Booklet (PDF)
- Slide Decks and Resource Guides in Translation (English, Spanish, French, German, Dutch, Portuguese, Italian)
- Further background on Google Search
- Printables and Shareables: These printables and social media prompts can be used to spark conversations about information literacy. These templates can be customized with your library's information and used as print displays or on social media.
Super Searchers Video Guides
These brief videos outline the individual steps of the SIFT framework employed by the Super Searchers training.
- Stop and Think Critically
- Investigate the Source
- Find Better Coverage
- Trace Claims, Quotes, and Media
Webinar Recordings
Super Searchers for Library Workers Recordings
The ease with which misinformation can be created and spread online endangers everyday discourse—and libraries are uniquely suited to help counteract its negative effects. Using research developed at University of Washington, Google has created a new set of tools for evaluating material found online, making it easier to think critically about the veracity of digital information right at the point of search. Library consultant Toby Greenwalt demonstrates the capabilities of Super Searchers and showcase potential applications in the library workspace. View the archived recording of a Super Searchers training. Core content was the same across all four webinars.
- Super Searchers for Library Workers (September 19, 2023)
- Super Searchers for Library Workers (October 24, 2023)
- Super Searchers for Library Workers (November 28, 2023)
- Super Searchers for Library Workers (December 12, 2023)
Beyond Super Searchers: Public Libraries in the Age of Misinformation Recording
The spread of digital misinformation continues to have profound effects on the physical world, and libraries are in no way immune. How can the profession use its information literacy and critical thinking skills to understand the current landscape and better inoculate itself against these effects? This panel discussion looks at some of ways misinformation has impacted public library service, and how libraries can better operate in this rapidly changing environment. Features multiple perspectives on the effects of online misinformation and offers first-person narratives on the threats and opportunities presented.
Other Information Literacy Resources
The following resources offer a deeper dive into some of the concepts applied in Super Searchers and related resources in the library community.
The SIFT Method: Researcher Mike Caulfield’s work on misinformation and critical thinking provides the foundation upon which Super Searchers is built.
- Introduction to SIFT
- Verified, forthcoming book by Caulfield and Sam Wineburg
Information Literacy in Libraries: Recent research provides indicators that libraries can help people better evaluate information. The following provides additional resources specifically for library workers.
- “Most Americans – especially Millennials – say libraries can help them find reliable, trustworthy information.” Pew Research Center, August 20, 2017
- American Library Association Literacy Clearinghouse
- AASL Standards Framework for Learners (PDF)
- ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education
- Media Literacy Education in Libraries for Adult Audiences
- Co-Designing for Trust
Other Trends: Emerging technologies such as AI require ongoing awareness in order to separate facts from misinformation.
- “As AI Spreads, Experts Predict the Best and Worst Changes in Digital Life by 2035,” summary report by Pew Research Center
- Information Technology and Libraries: Algorithmic Literacy and the Role For Libraries
- UNESCO Digital Library: Artificial Intelligence: Media and Information Literacy, Human Rights and Freedom of Expression
- “Exploring AI with Critical Information Literacy,” short course from ALA and ACRL