Tech Competencies for the 21st-Century Librarian Starr Hoffman Librarian for Digital Collections University of North Texas Libraries San Antonio Public Libraries | Staff Development Day |

The "How" Before the "What" "Oh, I don't know how to do that. “ You ’ re saying, "I don't think that I can learn this." Strategy for improving your tech skills The mantra: Just try it. Make time. One of our strengths as librarians: our love of learning.

The "How" Before the "What" "Oh, I don't know how to do that. “ You ’ re saying, "I don't think that I can learn this." Strategy for improving your tech skills The mantra: Just try it. Make time. One of our strengths as librarians: our love of learning.

1.) Operating System & File Management Skills Learn: the basics of MS Windows to navigate to your files Windows Explorer or “ My Computer ” icon the "search for files and folders" feature to logically organize your files with folders to right-click (and other shortcuts) Ways to learn it: Utilize your IT Dept. or a techie friend request a short training session 0.html?tag=usertag-shortcut&kw=shortcut 0.html?tag=usertag-shortcut&kw=shortcut

2.) and Calendar Management Learn how to: set up spam filters send and open attachments set up categorized folders for messages archive your messages send and schedule appointments share and view other calendars Ways to learn it: search for the name of your client and “ tutorial ” online free Microsoft tutorials:

3.) Office Software Skills Learn how to: use word processing software use spreadsheets give electronic presentations go beyond the basics use shortcuts and tips become a power user Ways to learn it: tips & tricks:

4.) Internet Skills Learn how to: perform sophisticated searches in databases and in search engines teach patrons basic internet skills how to create accounts how to perform searches be familiar with a variety of informative websites Ways to learn it: Search Engine Watch ’ s “ Web Searching Tips ”

5.) Basic Tech Troubleshooting Learn: “ soft ” vs. “ hard ” re-start teach patrons how to use your library ’ s Wi-Fi when you can fix it, and when to call tech support Ways to learn it: approach your IT Department manager request a short training session for library staff

6.) Media Storage Devices Learn how to: use USB flash devices copy files to a CD / DVD ( “ burn it ” ) distinguish between optical disk types CD, CD-R, C-RW, DVD, DVD+/-R Ways to learn it: CD-R FAQ How to Burn a CD management/howto-burn-a-cd.htmhttp:// management/howto-burn-a-cd.htm Optical disk types

7.) Downloading & Installing Software Learn how to: download software and updates install software from CD, DVD, or previously downloaded Ways to learn it: Step-by-step (downloading) Tips for safe downloads

8.) Scanning & Faxing Learn how to: scan documents and/or images attach those files to an fax documents from fax machine or PC Ways to learn it: Scanning Basics Faxing (in Windows XP)

9.) Digital Cameras & Basic Photo Editing Learn how to: take digital photos upload those image files to your computer crop, resize, and rotate images print images in various sizes upload images to a website (or a service like Flickr) more about Flickr: “ Learning & Using Library 2.0 ” presentation Ways to learn it: CNET digital photography guides About.com guides

10.) Basic Library 2.0 Skills Learn the basics: blogs & RSS wikis social networking IM (instant messaging) bookmarking photo/video sharing Ways to learn it: “ Learning & Using Library 2.0 ” presentation See linked resources on my website:

So, How Will You Learn It? Just try it. Make time.

Want More? My Wiki Links to: Resources for learning Library 2.0 Today ’ s presentations Today ’ s handouts Contact Me!