What Is Information Literacy?

In a nutshell, information literacy is the ability to find, understand, and use information effectively - this includes both digital (computers, smartphones, tablets, i.e., anything requiring computer code) and analog (books, film, physical pictures, even sensory data from our environment, i.e., non-digital) information.

The following provides a more detailed, specific definition.

"Information Literacy is defined as the ability to know when there is a need for information, to be able to identify, locate, evaluate, and effectively use that information for the issue or problem at hand.

Simply put, information literacy is the key competency needed to enhance K-16 academic performance, engage patient personal responsibility, improve workplace performance and productivity, and compete effectively in a dynamically evolving world marketplace."

https://web.archive.org/web/20170108033416/http://infolit.org/about-the-nfil/what-is-the-nfil/

I would add to this definition a personal component beyond the "marketplace," i.e., getting a job. Information literacy is not only important for academic work, it is almost as necessary as literacy (the ability to read and understand what you read) to function as a 21st Century citizen. Information literacy helps one more easily find entertainment to enjoy, connect and network with people, become a better communicator, consumer, participant in our democracy, and better at one's career. Also, as technology changes, a good foundation in information literacy helps one become adaptable to the use of this new technology by building on these skills.