Goal 3:  The library is a leader in providing Durham's residents with information technology resources needed for academic and business success and for social networking and leisure activities.

3.4:  By 6/30/09, all staff will have core competencies in technology-related communications, as well as PC- and Web-based applications.

What are some strategies we have for this?

1. Identify technology-related core competencies for all staff positions.

    

2. Improve staff technology training.

    

3. Create a shared Web-based calendar for staff use.

    

4. Improve and expand Outlook email groups.

    

5. Create a library Intranet.

    

6. Provide a computer lab for staff training.

What are we working on?

• We are currently working on getting the Main Library conference room up for staff training both through the State Library's webclasses and other types of classes such as (possibly) those run through WebJunction, the Urban Libraries Council, etc.  We are working with the State Library to get their classes projected to a group of employees rather than just have one person take a class online.
• The emerging technologies committee has scheduled some training for 2008 for staff.  Information for staff training will go out in December.  This will not only include training staff on the new technologies such as blogs and social networking, but also making sure that they know the basics of Microsoft Word, Excel, and their Outlook email. *update* The Emerging Technologies Committee will begin classes in databases for staff.  This will be targeted to the reference staff at all the libraries.

What has been working great for us?

• Computer training for staff started in January and seems to be a success.  Reviews from staff have been very positive.
• Web 2.0 Speed Dating for staff was offered and was a big success.  Staff seemed interested in the new technologies and classes will be offered (hopefully) at some point in the future on using some of these new technologies at home.

Questions?  Comments?  Please contact one of the Goal Champions for Goal 3:  Aftab Ahmed and Jennifer Lohmann.