Do you provide technology assistance to library patrons? Are you responsible for coordinating technology related programs and services at your library? Do you help patrons in your library’s makerspace, technology lab, or media lab? If you regularly help patrons to use technology, this course can help increase your skills as a trainer and improve your library’s services through better planning. Library services are undeniably intertwined with technology. From helping patrons search the library catalog to providing maker equipment such as 3D printers, library staff regularly help patrons use technology. Each individual interaction is an opportunity to teach, and formal programs provide a special opportunity to provide focused instruction. There are many models for teaching library patrons to use a wide range of technologies that go beyond basic digital literacy instruction.

In this course, participants will:

• Explore ways that libraries can provide technology instruction for patrons of all ages using both traditional and non-traditional models in one-on-one, group, and online environments.
• Learn planning, promotional, and evaluation processes to improve existing services and programs and better meet patron needs.
• Look at ways to support staff learning to increase technology skills and training techniques to increase the quality of patron instruction across all programs and services.
• After completion of this course, participants will have a better understanding of how the library can support patrons in learning new technologies. They will be able to apply new skills in program planning and technology training.

Course Description: This four-week course will provide weekly readings, practical assignments, and supplementary resources. The instructor will share best practices, examples, and useful tips and techniques that can be applied immediately in your own library and community. During the course, you will participate in discussion forums and an online meeting where you can share your ideas and experiences and learn from other course participants. This course is open to library staff from all types of libraries (public, academic, school, and special). This course is targeted towards library staff who are responsible for planning, coordinating, and evaluating patron technology instructional services, but it may also be of interest to staff who provide instructional services directly to patrons.

To learn more or to register visit the InfoPeople Course Page.

Evette M. Atkin

Continuing Education Coordinator

Library of Michigan

atkine@michigan.gov

517.373.3746