Technology classes for senior citizens: Creating an environment where senior citizens can develop technology skills to actively participate in a strong society

An increase in seniors aged 65 and older requesting assistance in using these devices created the opportunity for the library to develop technology classes which started in June 2013. This program represents an innovative service and best practice library program that empowers senior citizens to become active users of new technologies which open up a whole new world of information and opportunity. It is important to provide opportunities for lifelong learning for this age group and to show them how they can use technology to enhance their lives. A mix of small group sessions, one-on-one and drop-in sessions, theme based instruction sheets to take home, exclusive access to specialized magazines, access to devices and continued support from library staff have proved to be best practices for these classes. Each group session is structured around a theme selected from a survey or enquiries received from eLibrary services staff. Social inclusion, meeting new people, using the space in the library, exposure to ebooks and other eresources and participating in a group environment are all benefits of this program. The library is actively participating and involved in building a strong society that includes senior citizens who can actively use new technologies, read books and magazines on their tablets, and access information that was previously inaccessible. These classes are one of the library’s highest attended adult programs. Libraries have the facility to offer training and have highly skilled staff to help people access and understand information and services to meet their needs. This paper examines this best practice library program in detail, the role of the public library and the importance of literacy and reading.