Training Programs and Resources

Teaching the public how to find, evaluate and use information effectively in order to obtain essential 21st century skills is a responsibility embraced by today’s libraries. These skills are essential if people are to use government information, programs and services successfully. One of the challenges associated with supporting E-Government services in libraries is developing the staff's skills to support citizens as they access the services. The socioeconomic and educational background of citizens in need of government services varies widely; thus the level of support library staff needs to provide also varies. In some situations, the primary need of citizens is learning how to use the computer to access services. In other situations, citizens need assistance in navigating to the correct website and interpreting the requirements of the service.

In order to support citizen access to E-Government services fully, libraries must consider the challenges associated with providing support for basic computer literacy instruction and locating government information and services. Below are some resources that can assist with both staff and user training.

Links to Computer Literacy Resources

• Aspects of computer literacy: Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_literacy
• Online tutorials – Examples of freely available tutorials providing instructions on basic computer skills:
• • Basic Computer Skills for Spanish speakers. Examples of Spanish language guides for using computers and sample class curriculum

• Computer Basics Tutorials –A series of web-based tutorials for gaining basic computer skills
• • Email Guide – Basic instruction on the anatomy and etiquette of using email
  • Goodwill Community Foundation tutorials –Free online learning including multiple courses in computer skills
  • Learn the Net – Tutorials on using the web with options in Spanish and French
• Mouse Aerobics – Tutorial for learning basic mouse skills http://monroe.lib.mi.us/computer_classes/mouse_exercise/mouse_exercise.htm
• Mouse Exercises – Exercises for learning mouse skills
• Mouse Exercises – Exercises for learning mouse skills in Spanish
• New User Tutorial – Lessons for basic navigation of computer workstations
• Internet tutorials: Your Basic Guide to the Internet –Concise overviews of the Internet, including a web overview, search tools, and techniques, and a guide to basic content
• Review of free email services – Reviews and tips for using over 15 free email services
• Peter’s Online Typing Course – Lessons for developing keyboard skills

Examples of Public Library Computer Literacy Programs

• Galion Public Library (OH) http://cgi.galion.lib.oh.us/instruction/
• Holmes Public Library (MA) http://holmespubliclibrary.org/AdultsComputer.html
• Louisville Free Public Library (KY) http://www.lfpl.org/class-descriptions.htm
• Monroe County Library System (MI) http://monroe.lib.mi.us/computer_classes/class_descriptions.htm
• Marengo Public Library (IA) http://www.marengo.lib.ia.us/use-the-library/classes/computer-class
• Orange County Library System (FL) Vengersammy, Ormilla. "Give Your Technology Program a Little 'Class'!." Computers in Libraries 29, no. 3 (March 2009): 14-18.
• Skokie Public Library (IL) http://www.skokie.lib.il.us/s_programs/pr_computer/index.asp

Government Information Training Opportunities and Resources:

• Government Information Clearinghouse & Handout Exchange – Tutorials and handouts related to specific topics, government information products, and managing government information collections.
• Government Information in the 21st Century – A continuing education program to train reference and public services librarians and library workers in the use of government information
• Federal Depository Library Program Events – Information about Interagency Depository Seminars and Depository Library Council Meetings, which provide continuing education opportunities for those interested in government information.
• Federal Depository Library Directory – Locate a government information specialist in your state
• GODORT’s State and Local Documents Taskforce – A wiki includes links to projects and the work of the Taskforce.