From the Association of College and Research Libraries:
Information literacy is a set of abilities requiring individuals to recognize when information is needed
and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.
Information literacy forms the basis for lifelong learning. It is common to all disciplines, to all learning environments, and to all levels of education. It enables learners to master content and extend their investigations, become more self-directed, and assume greater control over their own learning. An information literate individual is able to: