Computers in Libraries: E204 Technology Skills Assessment & Training

Regina Burgess, Director, Professional Development, Panhandle Library Access Network, Inc. (Multitype Library Cooperative)

Diana Silveira, Novare Library Services

Technology skills assessments are tools used by supervisors and managers to gauge competency in key subject matter areas. These assessments can be powerful tools for identifying common skills gaps, allowing libraries to make objective decisions on how best to close those gaps. These gaps are often related to proficiencies in areas with large impact, such as cybersecurity and cloud computing, so by utilizing technology skills assessments, libraries are able to take factual data into account when deciding how to best train their staff. Speakers share their experience in conducting pre-training technology skills assessments for library staff in several libraries, identifying the common gaps of knowledge among staff members, providing free training, and follow up post-training technology skills assessments to ensure that staff increased their knowledge. Staff reported that they felt more comfortable helping patrons and students with their technology issues, and supervisors reported that they had more confidence in their staff’s ability to both use technology and assist patrons and students with their technology needs. Get a sample technology skills, list of resources for free technology training and lessons learned using the assessments.