How do you teach new library tech to staff and users?

1 Assess the needs and goals

Before introducing any new library tech, you need to assess the needs and goals of your staff and users. What problem are you trying to solve, or what opportunity are you trying to create, with the new tech? How does it align with your library's mission and vision? Who are the target users, and what are their expectations, preferences, and abilities? How will you measure the success and impact of the new tech? These questions will help you design a relevant and effective training plan that meets the needs and goals of your staff and users.

2 Choose the right format and method

Depending on the type, complexity, and purpose of the new library tech, you may choose different formats and methods for training and support. For example, you may use online tutorials, webinars, videos, podcasts, guides, manuals, FAQs, or blogs for self-directed learning; or you may use workshops, seminars, demonstrations, hands-on sessions, or one-on-one consultations for interactive learning. You may also use a combination of formats and methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. The key is to choose the format and method that best suits the content, context, and audience of the new library tech.

3 Involve the staff and users

One of the best ways to teach new library tech to staff and users is to involve them in the process. You can do this by soliciting feedback, suggestions, and questions from them before, during, and after the training and support. You can also encourage them to share their experiences, challenges, and successes with the new tech with each other, either in person or online. This will help you create a sense of ownership, engagement, and community among your staff and users, as well as identify any gaps, issues, or opportunities for improvement.

4 Provide ongoing support and evaluation

Teaching new library tech to staff and users is not a one-time event, but a continuous process that requires ongoing support and evaluation. You need to provide regular updates, reminders, tips, and resources to your staff and users to reinforce their learning and confidence. You also need to monitor and evaluate the usage, satisfaction, and impact of the new tech, using various methods such as surveys, analytics, feedback forms, or testimonials. This will help you track the progress and outcomes of your training and support, as well as make any necessary adjustments or enhancements.

5 Showcase the benefits and value

Finally, you need to showcase the benefits and value of the new library tech to your staff and users. You need to demonstrate how the new tech can help them achieve their goals, solve their problems, or enhance their experience. You can do this by highlighting the features, advantages, and benefits of the new tech, using examples, stories, or testimonials. You can also use incentives, rewards, or recognition to motivate and appreciate your staff and users for using the new tech. This will help you create a positive and lasting impression of the new tech, and increase its adoption and retention.

6 Learn from others and share your insights

Teaching new library tech to staff and users is not a solitary task, but a collaborative one that can benefit from the insights and experiences of others. You can learn from other libraries, organizations, or experts who have implemented or used similar or different library tech, and see what worked or didn't work for them. You can also share your own insights and lessons learned with your peers, colleagues, or networks, and contribute to the collective knowledge and practice of library services. This will help you improve your skills and strategies, and expand your horizons and opportunities.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?