_Instruction in the use of the library and indexes_

Having discussed with the class the questions assigned on the day of
enrollment and explained the method of study recommended for their use,
it will be well for the teacher to devote some time to instruction in
the use of the library. It is possible that the older classes will
require very little of this, but there are few classes where an hour, at
least, cannot well be spent in a discussion of indexes, titles, and
relative value of the works on various subjects. This hour need not be
the regular recitation period. A session before or after school could be
devoted to the purpose. The teacher's instruction, however, will be
greatly assisted if the students are asked to prepare answers before
coming to class to such questions as the following:--

1. How much previous work have you done in the library?

2. Of what use do you think the library should be to you in the
course you are just entering?

3. What is a source book? Of what use are source books?

4. What source books on this period of history are in the library?

5. What do you think will be the best references for questions on
the artistic, industrial, political, social, economic, and
military phases of the history you are about to study?

6. What encyclopedias and works of general reference are in your
library?