[Publib] Re: computer instruction/classes

[Michelle Lauer - Bader]

Alison,
    We used to offer computer classes for groups (with a patron fee) but attendance steadily declined so they were dropped. We now offer one-on-one Computer Tutor sessions, 30 minutes long. We do get repeaters and I would say the majority of requests are from older patrons.
    This is the wording we use in our library newsletter. "Schedule a 30-minute one-on-one appointment with a librarian on a topic of your choosing. Certain sessions will require some knowledge of computers and all instruction will be at a basic level. Telephone or email xxxx ...." 
    The sessions are quite popular (51 sessions in October) and we increased the number of staff and high school computer volunteers participating in order to keep up with demand and to not have such a long waiting period. The number of monthly sessions has almost doubled. A library clerk handles appointments and is the first contact for library patrons. 
    We have a variety of computer expertise on staff and tell patrons we can tutor on software on our public machines as well as things like database searching, developing a resume, ebay, etc. I am not sure how often we have to tell someone we can't tutor on a specific topic.
     Hope this helps. 

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Michele (Shelley) Lauer-Bader, Library Director
Half Hollow Hills Community Library
55 Vanderbilt Parkway
Dix Hills, NY 11746-5817

631-421-5940 (voice)
631-423-8946 (fax)
mlauerba at suffolk.lib.ny.us 
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