Technology Training and Libraries

Hi readers! This week (or last technically) I read an article from ‘Computers in Libraries vol. 31, no. 9, page 10, November 2011’. 

 This article, written by Irmilla Vengersammy under the title ‘Libraries Adding Value with Technology Training’, is about technology and how libraries should be (and are) providing patrons with classes and tutorials in this constantly evolving area.

, the author talks about the constant flow and evolution of technology in our everyday lives and how libraries could (and should) use this to our advantage by teaching these all important life skills to our patrons. This would benefit our library users and at the same time add value to our industry and help show how indispensable libraries are even now. Many libraries already have with the running of numerous classes to do with technology and the internet. One such service mentioned in the article is a job-seekers “course” which is run through the library (both in person and over the internet). This service teaches patrons how to write resumes and cover letters, offers mock interviews, and shows them how to search and apply for jobs via the internet. 

Before reading this article I never knew that these classes existed and I’m actually finding myself quite interested in pursuing this. I feel it is important to learn this kind of stuff and I had no idea that there were courses and tutorials being offered by libraries for free for…God knows how long! 

Why did no one tell me of this?!