[Publib] Computer instruction/classes

[Lynne Ingersoll]

Hello....

I wrote this privately to another pub-libber, but here it is for the group.

We discontinued actual classes a couple of years ago, due to apparent
declining interest and attendance.

We replaced classes with the Computer Tutor program.  We will make an
appointment with any patron (residency or library card not required) for one
or multiple one-hour sessions during which we will teach them anything they
want to learn, provided we know how to do it.  For instance, I'll teach
Excel but I couldn't show anyone anything about selling on E-bay.  Mostly we
teach basic stuff like how to navigate in Windows, how to get around the
Internet, how to set up e-mail, how to fill out a job application, how to
use Word.  I will also help with resumes, but I am the only one who does.
There is no cost for this service.  Each session is limited to one hour
because beyond that, people stop absorbing the information.  I have one
reference person who is very good with older patrons who are nervous with
the computer; personally, I don't have enough patience with these folks, so
I try to stick to Excel and resumes.  We all teach the databases to which we
subscribe. 

This service seems to be pretty successful.  Mostly, people who make
appointments do show up; if not, many will call to cancel.  We have many
patrons who return frequently, sometimes for repeats and sometimes for
something new.  It is much easier dealing with one person and a class of
even just five people, all of whom define "basic" in a different way.

Down the line our IT Dept. may offer classes in advanced stuff like video or
music editing, using Publisher, or selling on E-bay, but for the basics, the
Reference staff members prefer the Computer Tutor concept.

I hope this helps you.


Lynne S. Ingersoll
Reference Services Manager
Technical Services Manager
Blue Island Public Library
2433 York Street
Blue Island, IL 60406
(708) 388-1078 x20
(708) 388-9301 Fax

-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org [mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org]
On Behalf Of Alison Moss
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2007 7:04 PM
To: publib at webjunction.org; incolsa at incolsa.net
Subject: [Publib] Computer instruction/classes

We are evaluating our computer class offerings at this library, and would
like to consider some other libraries' practices.

Does your library offer computer instruction to customers?  If so, classes,
or one-on-one?  Internet and or word processing?  If you have a procedural 
document you could share, that would be very helpful.

Or, does your library simply provide access to computers.  If so, do you
have an instruction source to which you can refer patrons without computer
skills?

Any observations in general on the subject would also be welcome.

Thanks!

-- 
Alison R. Moss
Head Reference Librarian
Tippecanoe County Public Library
627 South Street
Lafayette, IN  47901-0150
email:  amoss at tcpl.lib.in.us
telephone:  765-429-0176
FAX:  765-429-0150
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