digital literacy Archive

Can you use Linux on public access computers at a library? Yes!

I have long believed that Linux could be more widely used in the library, especially on public access computers. It’s another thing to actually experiment with a Linux OS on public access computers. Would there be push-back from patrons and staff? A few months ago I had the opportunity to actually try it. My library

Wireless Hotspots For Loan

Last month, Seattle joined the ranks of cities such as Chicago and New York City in offering wireless hotspots for loan at their public libraries (see the nifty New York Public Library page here) . The Seattle Public Library’s HotSpot can connect up to 15 devices to 4G LTE and 3G networks, and also change

Learn (and teach!) Code

Computer Science Education week is coming up and libraries across the country, including mine, are participating in Hour of Code. If you haven’t hear of it, Hour of Code is a world-wide learning event where people can learn basic computer code. Last year, over 15 million people participated and I was one of them. During

The digital divide with Seniors

Many of my technology encounters at the library have been with Seniors. Sometimes the request for help is simple. Sometimes it is complex. In nearly all cases there is a level of frustration. Seniors require a different approach in teaching style. Kids, even when they don’t have access to technology at home, have a natural

The Fitbit in the library – maybe

Personal devices are the hot new consumer electronic trend right now. Some show really great promise at solving certain medical problems. Others just further propel people toward increased internet connectivity and socialization. These devices present problems for libraries in many of the some ways that tablets, ipods, and laptops do. There is the increased bandwidth

Teaching Internet Safety

A crucial part of your digital literacy instruction programs ought to be classes for the public on Internet safety.  There’s a lot of topics in this area, so planning a curriculum around this concept is rich and varied based on audience, purpose, and tech level.   First, work on identifying your community needs.  Get input from