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By Eric Christians

Technology Coordinator

If you noticed the Austin Public Library was closed on Oct. 24-25 and wondered what exotic destinations or luxurious vacations the library staff were on, sorry to dash your daydreams (and our own). The library staff attended professional development at the annual Minnesota Library Association conference (MLA for short) during those two days.  The MLA conference brings together librarians and library professionals from around Minnesota to share new ideas, engage in best practices and show off successes that have occurred over the last year.  This conference is not only informative and educational but uplifting and energizing for those who attend.

Amongst the panel discussions, breakout sessions and hands-on learning environments, one of the hot topics at this year’s MLA conference was digital literacy.  Although digital literacy can have many definitions, the definition that I like best is this: the ability to find, consume, evaluate, create and communicate information effectively using different digital devices, software and other technologies.  Digital literacy has no age limit and can be seen in many different scopes from just getting started with technology to learning more advanced techniques and procedures.

Since joining the library as Technology Coordinator, the staff and I have focused on bringing digital literacy to the forefront with many different library offerings and collaborations.  Tech coaching, learning kiosks, coding opportunities, informational presentations, and hands-on tech classes have not only dotted the library’s activities calendar but also created space within the library’s walls for patrons to access, utilize and get comfortable with technology.  Here are some digital literacy offerings coming up at the Austin Public Library.

Tech Coaching is available four days a week to offer answers or direction with devices and apps.  (No appointment is necessary, first come first serve basis.)

Google Basics courses are available in November and December.  These classes are a hands-on learning experience with the Technology Coordinator.  (Registration required as class size is limited.)

Digital Trivia is available in November and December.  Family fun for all as we answer themed trivia questions using your own smartphones/tablets.

CreaTECH and STEAMLab classes offer unique opportunities for young patrons to explore technology in different ways for both fun and learning.  (Registration is required for CreaTECH classes.)

The Austin Public Library is looking to help with those digital literacy gaps with events and activities that are not only educational but fun and creative.  Check out the Austin Public Library’s activities calendar online at www.aplmn.org/calendar for more information about upcoming events and activities.  Reservations can be made by calling 507-433-2391 or in person at the service desk.  Come check out all that awaits you and your family at the Austin Public Library.