Easy Technology Programs for Libraries: 15 Quick and Popular Programs Your Patrons Will Love

(Paperback)

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Are you a librarian struggling to stay engaged in a digital age Facing budget concerns to keep existing programs running Dont have the staff or budget for specialized services Wonder how to move beyond teaching your patrons HOW to use a computer This book gives you 15, step-by-step programs, using free online software, that go beyond basic digital literacy, and provides you, the librarian, with all you need for classes that engage the digital natives and computer users in your community. It includes: 15 quick, easy classes focused on actual outcomes for patrons, without requiring a budget, dedicated facilities, or specialized knowledge. Classes that your patrons can relate to, geared towards actual needs or interests, and not just to techy people. How tos and other elements to effectively use simple software and allow patrons to get optimal results from their effort. Classes or workshops designed to help the average computer user so he or she can teach patrons with ease and authority. Tips for teachers or librarians on how to engage their audience and not lose them with information overload. This book is a complete computer class upgrade solution. Based on the Montessori Method, classes are problem or project based. You are given all the tools you need as a presenter to show relatable uses of technology, making sure the patron can see the possibility involved in using the software. There are step-by-step instructions that focus on your patron leaving with practical skills for everyday life using freely-available software such as YouTube, Ebay, Google, and Monster. Best practices are also included so your patrons project has the greatest chance of being successful.

Reviews

These 15 lessons go beyond the mouse-and-keyboard basics to incorporate free tools like YouTube and Audacity into library computer classes. Folmar (Game It Up!, 2015) packs each section with useful content, including not just instructional outlines, but also full-blown lesson plans in jargon-free, nearly folksy language. Tips on teaching methods and opportunities for group work ensure that technology programs will be effective and interesting.... [T]he concepts presented here could be applied to a number of different platforms. Small or rural libraries will benefit most from this collection of creative, budget-friendly projects. * Booklist *
Folmars book is a great resource, filtering through a world of technology programs, picking a select few to represent the needs of library patrons. As an educator, this book helps identify the tools I would want to share and emphasize with my audience so they are capable end-users. The supports provided communicate the relevant value of the programs, how to get people started quickly, teaching pro-tips. I will share this book with colleagues because it would save my time, and theirs, sifting through an ocean of options. -- Chuck English, Director of Education, Science Museum of Virginia

Author Bio

David Folmar has 20 years of Digital Video and Audio production and presentation experience. David worked in the Richmond Public Library system as a Digital Literacy Librarian and then as Emerging Technology. Now, he researches UX, Social Media, Open Source Software, Gaming and Simulation, Digital and Media Literacy and is currently working with Childrens STEM programs in Robotics, Coding, and Digital Design.