Did you know that October is Information Literacy Month in Ohio?  Read Governor Kasich’s full proclamation.

As our Information Literacy LibGuide states:

Information literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to “recognize when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.” Developing these critical skills creates the foundation for lifelong learning. (American Library Association. Presidential Committee on Information Literacy. Final Report. Chicago: American Library Association, 1989.)

In today’s environment, consumer health information in particular is readily available via the Internet.  How many of you have “Googled” your medical symptoms? But, how do you know that the information you find is trustworthy?  Which websites are more reputable than others? How can you effectively evaluate information for your particular need?

What a great way to celebrate Information Literacy Month by visiting the University Libraries and UT Student Medical Center’s joint table at this year’s Welloween health fair on main campus!  Our library professionals and physicians will point you to expert resources for quality health information you can rely on, as well as tips for locating, evaluating and using information. We will also have a fun matching game that you can play to win some healthy snacks.

Welloween is fun, free and open to the public.  There will be free flu shots, health screenings, door prizes and a costume contest.  Enter to win, and you might be lucky enough to take home a copy of The Healthy College Cookbook and PeTA’s Vegan College Cookbook, among other prizes.  Mark your calendars – the event will be held this Friday, October 26, from 11:30am to 1:30pm in the Student Recreation Center.  We hope to see you there!

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Jodi Jameson, Nursing Librarian, at 419-383-5152 or jodi.jameson@utoledo.edu.