[Libs-Or] Technology Assistance - How much is too much?

[Kirsten Brodbeck-Kenney]

This is essentially our policy, as well. We also have a policy that we don't handle patrons' devices; we'll verbally walk them through the process, but we don't touch anything. 



Kirsten Brodbeck-Kenney, MLIS
 
Library Director
 
Driftwood Public Library
 
801 SW Hwy 101, #201
 
Lincoln City, OR 97367
 
541-996-1251 (desk)
 
541-996-1262 (fax)
 
www.driftwoodlib.org
 
>>> "Dunham, Charles" <Charles.Dunham at corvallisoregon.gov> 1/6/2016 3:54 PM >>>

 

We only offer technology help related to library services. We stray over the line sometimes, but this policy prevents us from going down a troubleshooting black hole.
 
 
 
Charles Dunham
 
541 766-6965
 
Adult Services Librarian
 
Corvallis-Benton County Public Library
 
 
 
 
 

From: Libs-Or [mailto:libs-or-bounces at listsmart.osl.state.or.us] On Behalf Of Aaron Novinger
 Sent: Wednesday, January 06, 2016 3:48 PM
 To: libs-or at listsmart.osl.state.or.us
 Subject: [Libs-Or] Technology Assistance - How much is too much?
 
 
 


Hello!
 
When helping patrons with technology, where do you draw the line? Does your library have a policy, or does each staff member set their own limits?
 
Showing them how to download and use e-book apps is one thing, but what about things like...
 
installing free software, such as Adobe reader or an anti-virus?
 walking them through system updates?
 transferring pics from phone/tablet to cloud storage?
 
We're trying to teach them to fish, and there is a reason they aren't going to Geek Squad; however, complaints and perhaps liability issues could surface when working with patrons on their devices.
 
Do you set time limits, tell the patron you're "hands-off" prior to helping them, and is the service they receive consistent from staff member to staff member?
 
Looking forward to any advice you have. 

Thank you,
 
Aaron
 



-- 



Aaron K. Novinger, SLIM '14
 
Emporia State University, Oregon Campus
 
anovinge at g.emporia.edu
 






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