[Publib] Public computer classes

[Elizabeth Thorson]

Sean, we have decided that our purpose in teaching classes is to enable
our patrons to use the library's resources - broadly interpreted! 
 
So we teach beginning classes on basic, necessary skills (keyboarding,
mousing, etc).
 
We teach classes on the software that we offer in our computer center
(Word, Excel, Access, Powerpoint) and a class on basic Internet skills.

 
We offer email classes (since email is used for patron hold notices,
articles from databases, etc.) and classes on the library catalog and
databases.
 
We have tried and dropped classes on eBay - it was too hard to teach
and not essential to using the library resources. Patrons have asked for
classes on using photo software, advanced email, virus protection, how
to buy a computer etc ... but if the library doesn't offer/support the
service, we don't do a class on it.
 
Also, we have decided that we will provide a 90-minute BASIC class on
these topics. We will not compete with our community college which
offers more in-depth, advanced courses. This has enabled us to narrow
our focus and clarify our reasons for offering classes. 
 
The classes are taught by reference staff with a volunteer who roams
around looking for people who need extra help. We have a 12-person
computer classroom.
Elizabeth
 
 
Elizabeth Cuckow Thorson
Manager, Reference & Technical Services
Laramie County Library
2200 Pioneer Ave., Cheyenne WY 82001
307-773-7230

>>> "Aragon, Sean" <Sean.Aragon at fresnolibrary.org> 4/1/2008 2:49 PM
>>>

I’m looking for some collective wisdom on offering public computer
classes at public libraries:  purposes in offering classes, methods of
determining what classes are taught and determining who teaches the
classes.
 
Sean Aragon
Branch Periodical Coordinator
FresnoCountyPublic Library 
Fresno, CA 93657
saragon at fresnolibrary.org
 
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