Students research the library: Using student-led ethnographic research to examine the changing role of campus libraries

Abstract

In this article we discuss the benefits of student-led ethnographic research on the campus library. Although students may not be able to conduct full-blown research projects (without significant faculty/staff guidance), we suggest that even small-scale projects can provide libraries with valuable insights on student life and perspectives. Such projects provide an opportunity for collaboration between librarians, faculty, and students while providing students with hands-on, mentored research experience. We use our own experience at Illinois State University’s (ISU) Milner Library to illustrate the benefits and challenges of student-led research.