The mission of the Appalachian State University Library is to assist those who pursue knowledge. The mission is demonstrated through an instruction program that emphasizes teaching activities in the classroom, at public service desks, and through individualized research consultations.

Twenty-first century college graduates should be able to successfully navigate the world of media, information, and technology, and apply their learning in creative and thoughtful ways. The University Library has outlined the following goals for the Instruction Program:

• To prepare Appalachian graduate for life in an information-based society, enabling them to make effective lifelong use of information;
• To enable students to apply critical thinking to the discovery and use of information;
• To strengthen students' information-seeking abilities as a fundamental component of their education at Appalachian so they are competent in using the resources and services of their University Libraries;
• To ensure that Appalachian Faculty and staff are knowledgeable about the library's teaching mission and the library/classroom partnerships and peer assistance programs we can provide;
• To ensure the Appalachian faculty and staff are aware of the resources and services of the University Libraries and can employ them effectively in their teaching and research