Perceptions and Practices of Learning Styles in Library Instruction

Learning style theory has gained a broad base of acceptance in the library field. Less clear is how well librarians have assimilated learning style theory and how consciously they are incorporating its tenets into their day-to-day teaching. This survey was conducted to ascertain how instruction librarians and other library professionals learn, assimilate, and utilize learning style theory. Results show that the majority of librar- ians are aware of learning style theory, but many are unsure of its valid- ity or proper application in library settings. Recommendations include increased coverage of instructional theory in library schools and more rigorous scientific studies of learning styleñsensitive practice in library instruction settings.