In this module, I was particularly struck by the idea that technology is here and we need to treat it as such from Stephens’ (2019) “Libraries in Balance” passage from Wholehearted Librarianship (p. 79). I liked the assertion that digital skills are necessary, not optional, because they are. In order to function in human society now, one must have basic knowledge of how to use a computer, browser, email, applications like Adobe Acrobat, smartphones, social media, and more. This can be a hard wall to climb for digital immigrants, particularly those with mental or intellectual disabilities. Viewing digital skills as necessary can be beneficial for the learning mindset of both teachers (librarians) and students (patrons).
It is interesting to integrate my perspective as a Gen Z digital native because when I think of emerging technologies, I think of generative artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, robots performing medical operations, and self-driving cars. In other words, I think of technology that humankind is still developing and exploring. Stephens (2019) mentions computers, smartphones and 3D printing as things that are considered “emerging technologies” to the average librarian (p. 80). Like Stephens (2019) says, thinking of the latter group of technologies as established and here to stay can help librarians and patrons accept that they need to learn how to use them (p. 79). Then we can start to approach the former group of technologies.
This passage has inspired me to potentially teach digital technology classes in my future library career. I’m on track to work in library marketing, so these classes would align with my domain. I can see myself enjoying teaching social media classes in particular. I’d want to teach both the practical sides of social media, like how to use the app, and the cultural sides of social media, like what the application is typically used for and the etiquette. Of course, I’d also like to teach about the mental health effects of social media use and learning how to set limits.
Many of my local libraries have bland social media pages made up of only event flyers and the occasional city council photo. This isn’t out of a lack of interest or desire, it’s due to a lack of budget and time. If marketing is part of my responsibilities as a future librarian, I would love to humanize the library by serving as its “face”. Also, I’d love to film fun skits or hop on social media trends like other libraries have. These types of videos can bring in audiences from within and outside the library’s community. I was so pleased when Reels from other libraries came onto my Instagram feed. I now follow libraries from all over the world simply for their creative social media posts.
Here is a video from one of my favorite series from the Columbus Public Library. They parodize Law & Order while tracking down the culprits of damaged books. This video has over 100k likes! What a reach! (Embeds from Instagram do not seem to be allowed on this site, so please click the hyperlink to view)
References
Stephens, M. (2019). “Libraries in balance”. In Wholehearted Librarianship (pp. 78-80). ALA Editions.
Hi Isabel,
Patrons constantly ask for digital literacy courses at my library; unfortunately, we don’t offer any, so I frequently refer them to a library that does about 15 minutes away. Even with that option, I still see the look of disappointment every time I break the news. Though digital literacy is not something I have a passion for, I see how vital it is, especially for older adults, to acquire those skills. Many want to learn the basics of a Microsoft suite so they can fill out a job application or apply for a loan. It’s likely not a program I would like to be in charge of, but it is something I think is essetial for a library to offer.
Being the “face” of a library is also not something I would be personally interested in, but it’s great that it’s something you would take on. Many libraries are starting to spice up their social media profiles by highlighting librarians or making humorous content, and public reception seems to be loving it. I really enjoyed the post you highlighted. One of my favorite library accounts on Instagram is the Chadler Library.
Hi Krystal, thanks for sharing your experience. It’s a shame to hear that your library does not offer digital literacy courses; I hope they make room for it in the future! Watching the disappointed look on patrons’ faces whenever I tell them we don’t offer a service is one of the worst feelings on the job. Thanks for the recommendation, I’ll check out the Chadler Library’s account!