This section is dedicated to helping library staff become more competent with troublshooting and maintaining computers by getting the basics under control. As you peruse the content here, please use the rating, commenting, and recommendation functions to assess these documents. Your input will help surface the best content to other members and to build better resources on WebJunction.
Be sure to check out our catalog for courses to get you started, for example:
- Personal Computer Components, which will help you understand all those things that make a computer run—processors, motherboards, ports, cables and lots more.
- Getting Started with Microsoft Windows XP, an introduction to operating systems and the key features of Windows XP.
- Installing, Configuring, and Troubleshooting PC Components, for the designated installer and troubleshooter at your library, or if you just want to know more about how it all works.
- Internet Fundamentals, to gain a better understanding of the basic Internet technologies.
Then browse the documents in this section, such as:
Do you know what computer skills you need? Technology Competencies for Public Access Computing defines the basic skills, knowledge, and behaviors needed to keep your public computing program humming. The System Administration section covers the basic skills for configuring, administering, and maintaining computers and networks.
If you are affiliated with a WebJunction Partner state, be sure to access the courses listed here via your affiliation's course catalog to take full advantage of many free and reduced-priced courses. For more information on affiliations, see the User Guide.
|
|
Help-Desk Management Software
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Maintaining and Sustaining Technology.
|
|
|
|
|
Talking with Non-Techies
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Communication and Partnerships.
|
|
|
|
|
Talking with Techies
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Communication and Partnerships.
|
|
|
|
|
Introduction to Help-desk Management
From Planning for Success Cookbook section on Maintaining and Sustaining Technology.
|
|
|
|
|
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Staying Connected Grant, Connecticut
Libraries get: FREE PC and network competency training, deep discounts on network and technical support.
|
|
|
|
|
Websites and Internet Resources on Basic Computer Support
A list of external links
|
|
|
|
|
WebJunction Member Tech Solutions: Managing Patron Time on Public Access Computers
WebJunction members share favorite tools and tips for managing patron time on public access computers.
|
|
|
|
|
WebJunction Member Tech Solutions: Keeping Computers Virus-Free
WebJunction members share favorite tools and tips for keeping computers virus-free.
|
|
|
|
|
WebJunction Member Tech Solutions: Headphones for Children's Computers
WebJunction members share their tips for managing headphones for children's public access computers.
|
|
|
|
|
WebJunction Member Tech Solutions: Best Tools for Managing Public Access Computers
WebJunction members share favorite tools and tips for managing public access computers.
|
|
|
|
|
WebJunction Member Tech Solutions: An Example of a Standard Configuration for Public Access Computers
A WebJunction member shares an example of a standard configuration for public access computers.
|
|
|
|
|
WebJunction Member Tech Solutions
WebJunction members share their solutions to common library technology challenges.
|
|
|
|
|
Polson (MT) City Library: Safe and Sound
What it takes to successfully implement technology in a small library: a determined library director teaming up with a top-notch consultant.
|
|
|
|
|
Mathews (VA) Memorial Library: Big Hug
A library in the Tidewater region gives its community--and advanced technology-- a warm embrace.
|
|
|
|
|
Online Technical Support
How to use online resources such as newsgroups, listservs, and message boards to get the technical support you need.
|
|
|
|
|
How Much Tech Support?
Did you ever wonder what the right level of tech support is for your library? Use this TechSoup Q&A to help you make the right decision.
|
|
|
|
|
Documenting Computer Processes for Staff
It's worthwhile to take the time to get the right technical stuff down on paper for those you support. Marilyn Colter, Library Director of Red Feather Mountain (CO) Library District, shows you how.
|
|
|