A rise in questions about digital content sparked the first Digital Literacy Fair at the Red Deer Public Library downtown branch on Saturday.
About 15 people attended the fair which boasted one-on-one help with all things digital including accessing databases, borrowing movies, audiobooks and eMagazines.
Kim Whiting, a librarian assistant in adult services, said more and more people are coming in with questions about how to access materials through a tablet or other device.
“Sometimes it’s just that first hand holding phase where you just want someone to walk you through it,” said Whiting. “Then you are more confident and you are fine with using it.”
But many, Whiting said, are not even aware of what the library offers.
Among the offerings are Hoopla, eMagazines, eBooks and eAudiobooks, Mango for language learning and Muzzy language for kids. Library users only need a valid card to access the materials.
“Some of these can be tricky to figure out and to sign up for and get the whole process started,” said Briana Ehnes, the library’s digital literacy co-ordinator.
Ehnes provides one-on-one support for those who may need a helping hand.
On Saturday most people came armed with troubleshooting questions.
“Everybody has a device,” said Ehnes. “Delivering that kind of content to people is incredibly important.”
Ehnes said that’s just the way people like to have access to materials today. “I think there will be an increased demand for that,” she said. “We’re seeing it already. The checkouts on overdrive are increasing every year. It is becoming more and more popular.”
To find out more visit www.rdpl.org and click on Digital Content. To book one-on-one time with Ehnes email behnes@rdpl.org or call 403-755-1130 to find out about the next digital open house.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com