Motoring & LeisureLibrary ServicesLibraries and computers - you tell us how it is! Libraries and computers - you tell us how it is!
By Jayne Warren - 05/09/2007
In August's MT, reader R. Watts described his frustration at being unable to find library staff who could help show him how to use the library's computer ("Learning to Surf", East Sussex, August 2007.) Your responses to his letter have revealed some startling variations in computer assistance across the country.
P. Stanton, from Rugby, wrote: "Here in Rugby we have some 30 computers, free to use by library card holders. Whilst the library staff are happy to get users out of difficulties they do not have time to train people. However, there are a number of volunteers who are providing just such help. One morning each week there is a drop in session, with no booking required, to get people started. Backing this are four one-hour bookable sessions of one-to-one help each week. As one of the volunteers I am constantly amazed by the wide range of interests and abilities of those who sit along side me and how quickly they get to grips with computing."
Brenda Reid, from Bath, wrote: "I would like to point out that not all library computers are free. Some libraries do charge to use their computers. For instance, Bath Library charge £3 per hour to use their computers, which includes seniors, carers, those on low income etc. I believe you can get it free for a quarter of an hour on some sites such as Ancestry.co.uk. But if you want to write emails to Mature Times - you'll will be charged!"
And Bob Mackay from Croydon, wrote: "We must be very fortunate in the Croydon and Bromley area to have access to free computer learning courses sponsored, I believe, by the government. I attend Croydon College for two 2 hour sessions per week, and after completing 30 to 50 hours then take an assessment on the relevant subject. And in our local church magazine there is an advert by someone who is prepared to come and help teach how to use a computer for a nominal charge. We also know someone (now retired) who has worked in computers all his life and is prepared to offer help to silver surfers who subscribe to our local magazine.
"R Watts made reference to ''going on a course at enormous expense '' as suggested by the main library. I spoke over the telephone with Keith Muggridge at Battle in East Sussex on 01424 774265. He especially welcomes the more mature complete beginner, and provides a comprehensive computer training and support service for the Hastings, Battle, Bexhill, Eastbourne and Rye areas of East Sussex. He is a qualified teacher with over 30 years' experience and an ICT examiner and moderator with one of the leading examination boards. I would have thought that the local library should be in a position to know if any of the Colleges in East Sussex offer free computer training. Perhaps a letter to the local paper may solve the problem or enquire around the local churches."
The Mature Times decided to investigate, hoping to unearth some kind of nationwide standard policy on the use of computers in libraries and available training. But it wasn't quite as simple as that, and, indeed there are variations both within regions and between libraries in the same regions, largely depending on the funds and staff available locally. The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) told us:
"Well over three quarters of libraries provide the kind of help older people need with the internet, such as introductory sessions, "technology for the terrified" and so on. Lots also provide help for people doing family and local history which is really popular with older people.
"All libraries have Internet access and all are free at least for an initial period - the majority completely. Lots of older people have made the first steps in cyberspace in the library because it’s free and easy; there’s usually one near where you live and in every library the staff are always willing to help."
On the whole, it seems as though libraries are really trying to do their utmost to make the world of the internet available to everyone.
Which isn't an easy task for an organisation that has over 290 million visitors a year, from all walks of life and all ages, and often relies on the goodwill of volunteers for day-to-day running. The Mature Times did take a peek at their publication called "Connecting People to Knowledge and Inspiration - a blueprint for excellence for Public Libraries 2008-2011" by John Dolan. I have included the relevant bits of it here to help library users who maybe struggling to get the service they need:
1. The Purpose of the Public Library is to be a trusted community resource providing a universal entitlement to :-
• The skills and joy of reading.
• Knowledge in all its forms, including print, audio, visual and digital media.
• Essential information, learning and knowledge at all stages of life.
• Involvement in the social, learning and creative life of the community.
It will achieve this by being at the very heart of the community, engaging with local people, offering informed guidance to them and supporting their needs, interests and aspirations.
2. Key Roles of the Public Library include The Digital Library: moving with urgency and excitement to the digital age, create a universal entitlement to remote and 24 hour, interactive access, trusted library resources and expert help to explore global resources and to solve urgent questions online, anywhere, anytime.
3. The blueprint for excellence includes The Digital Library - an entitlement to 24/7 online access to catalogues, resources, interactive content, communications and expert help through sustained information, learning and communications technologies.
Staff - enabled and empowered to lead and deliver customer-focused services that meet the national entitlement.
For those who have already mastered computer basics, finding out about library services can be found at The People's Network, which is part of the MLA. It is at the first link below. You can also browse round the second link below for more information.