Currie, C. Lyn2009-02-252009-02-252000Reference Librarian, v.33, nos. 69/70, Spring/Summer 2000, 219-231http://hdl.handle.net/10388/251C. Lyn Currie, BA. Grad Dip Lib. MA., is Head, Education Library, University of Saskatchewan, 28 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X1, Canada, E-mail: currie@sklib.usask.caThis paper considers the instructional role of the academic librarian and examines the contribution adult learning theory makes to the practice of teaching information literacy skills. It explores those principles of effective practice in facilitating adult learning which apply to the teaching-learning transactions in the library. It describes the aim of facilitation as one of encouraging self directed, empowered adults and confirms the role of the academic librarian in facilitating the development of critical thinking, creative problem-solving and informed decision making in adult learners. It also examines the concept of information literacy and how this contributes to adult lifelong learning.enadult learning, facilitation, self directed learning, information literacy, lifelong learningArticle10.1300/J120v33n69_21