The LibRAT Program: Peer Reference and Basic IL Instruction

ACRL Publications

They CAN and They SHOULD: Undergraduates Providing Peer Reference and Instruction
(2014)This article provides an in-depth exploration of the history of peer reference and instruction in academic libraries and argues for a wider adoption of both, based on the literature and on the LibRAT experience.
They not only CAN but they SHOULD: Why Undergraduates Should Provide Basic IL Instruction
(2013)This conference proceeding from ACRL 2013 specifically addresses the pedagogical advantages of having undergraduates leading sessions alone, without librarians hovering in the wings.
The LibRAT Program at Cal Poly: Full Partners in Peer Learning
(2021) Brett Bodemer and Kaila Bussert, Chapter in Training Research Consultants: A Guide for Libraries, ed., Mary K. O’Kelly, Association of College & Research Libraries.
The Wisdom of Embedding Student Assistants in Library Learning Workflows: Focus on Listening and Learning
(2017) Brett Bodemer. This two page essay describes how libraries can learn so much from students by working closely with them in peer learning programs. C&RL News, 77. 7: 347.

Peer Reference and the Out-of-the-Building Experience
(2023) This article outlines how peer reference is a natural progression in library services, and describes adjustments made for COVID and library building renovation closures. Reference Services Review Vol. 51, No. 2, pp. 230-246.
The LibRAT Program at Cal Poly SLO
(2017) Brett Bodemer. This chapter describes the program in its seventh year of operation. In Peer-Assisted Learning in Academic Libraries, eds., E. Rinto, J. Watts, & R. Mitola, Libraries Unlimited.