When one thinks of literacy and emerging trends in the library, the issue of computer literacy immediately comes to mind.
Computer literacy is identified as the knowledge and skills required to use computers and related technology competently.
At the most basic level, computer literacy requires knowing how to turn on a computer and how to use a mouse. At the more advanced end of the spectrum are skills like computer programming and creating applications.
Another important component of computer literacy is self-sufficiency with computers, and the degree of comfort one has with understanding and being able to work with computers and other technological devices.
I’m sure at some point we’ve all looked with shock and some awe at the ability of a youngster to navigate cellphones and social media applications.
Computer technology, for better or worse, has become an integral part of life for many of us, and the need to develop these skills is often an essential part of fully participating in society.
Many government documents, for example, are published only on the Internet, so accessing this information requires at least some basic computer skills. Just imagine if you did not have the skills or resources to print a job resume or type a letter.
Computer literacy requires that one has access to a computer and the Internet, and this is where the public library has carved a very important role for itself.
The concept of the Digital Divide refers to “the inequalities that exist between groups in terms of access to, use of, or knowledge of information and communication technologies” (Wikipedia, 2012).
The Digital Divide is closely associated with the concept of computer literacy: if you lack the access to technology, the task of becoming more computer literate can often be more difficult.
At the Williams Lake branch we have eight computers to provide free public Internet access and computer processing software, and they are in constant demand.
In December 2011, for instance, more than 1,250 people accessed a computer at our branch.
The total time spent by computer users in December logged in at 693, and this was not including usage of our two children’s computers. On our busiest day — a Tuesday, in this case Dec 6 — we had more than 70 people coming to the library to use a computer.
As mentioned, libraries have recognized the importance of providing free computer access for quite some time now.
With advances in technology, the constant fear felt by public libraries was becoming obsolete.
However, in a society in which access to high-speed Internet is simply not an economic reality for many individuals, the library’s importance is significant.
Along with more traditional services, computer access has become a basic tenet of public library service.
We’ve recently paired with the Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy two Tuesdays of every month to offer basic computer training to individuals, on a one-to-one basis.
If you’re looking acquire some fundamental computer literacy skills, such as setting up an e-mail, or navigating the World Wide Web, come to the library front desk to register or call 250-392-3630. Preregistration is required.