I read through the article about essential tech skills for seniors (and everybody these days); it’s great to draw attention to this challenge, and something our staff works with every single day [“Viewpoint: Five must-have technological skills for seniors," July 20].
In an older community like ours, the issue of seniors struggling with technological interfaces is more prevalent. That being said, it would be nice to inform people that there are ways to develop these critical skills in Powell River. Not everyone has a family member who can walk them through all their questions and many are not comfortable admitting this gap in knowledge to their family.
On a typical day in the library, part of our work is supporting people with low tech skills. We help them access resources to communicate, to perform essential tasks like banking and to learn something new. Many of them are seniors. Some have a computer or the internet at home, many do not.
We have several digital literacy programs that have sprung up in light of this huge need. The first being an ongoing course we offer called Tech Savvy; the theme varies but is always aimed at beginners and people with little to no general computer experience.
In the past we have focused on Facebook, eReaders, Gmail, online language learning, digital photography and many other topics. We also offer one-on-one support by appointment to get people comfortable enough to practise on their own.
We are fortunate to offer Tech Tips Tuesday and Thursday, which is operated by the literacy office, where patrons bring their tech questions/problems. This drop-in service is BYOD (bring your own device) or visitors can use one of ours.
I appreciate the Peak bringing attention to this issue; it helps start the conversation. There is free place for people to go when they need support, have tech questions or want to learn. They aren’t alone with these challenges.
Rebecca Burbank, chief librarian
Powell River Public Library
