What is the first step a library media specialist should take to help learners become independent in seeking knowledge?

The first step a library media specialist should take to help learners become independent in seeking knowledge is providing an overview of how materials are organized and labeling sections. This foundational knowledge enables students to understand the layout of the library, including categories and genres, thus empowering them to locate resources on their own. When learners have a clear grasp of the organization system—such as the Dewey Decimal System or library cataloging methods—they can navigate the library more effectively, find relevant materials independently, and build confidence in their research skills.

While offering online research tools, recommending books for self-study, and guiding students to reference materials are valuable practices, they typically build on the foundational understanding of how materials are organized. If students are not familiar with the organization of the library, they may struggle to utilize these tools effectively, limiting their ability to seek knowledge autonomously and hampering their long-term learning skills.