This paper outlines the principles and theory of performance support (in general) and of electronic performance support (in particular). It explains why the design and creation of electronic performance support systems are so important as a mechanism for providing scaffolding environments for use in improving the learning experience for new (and established) students within a university environment. It goes on to explain and demonstrate our methodology by means of a case study involving the design of an electronic performance support system--called "Epsilon"--which was built to support students' use of an academic library. (Contains 3 figures and 3 tables.)