Training Programs and Resources

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Note: As of July 2016, the E-Government Toolkit is no longer updated.

Training Programs and Resources

Teaching the public how to find, evaluate and use information effectively in order to obtain essential 21st century skills is a responsibility embraced by today’s libraries. These skills are essential if people are to use government information, programs and services successfully. One of the challenges associated with supporting E-Government services in libraries is developing the staff's skills to support citizens as they access the services. The socioeconomic and educational background of citizens in need of government services varies widely; thus the level of support library staff needs to provide also varies. In some situations, the primary need of citizens is learning how to use the computer to access services. In other situations, citizens need assistance in navigating to the correct website and interpreting the requirements of the service.

In order to support citizen access to E-Government services fully, libraries must consider the challenges associated with providing support for basic computer literacy instruction and locating government information and services. Below are some resources that can assist with both staff and user training.

Links to Computer Literacy Resources

– Aspects of digital literacy from Wikipedia.

Online tutorials – Examples of freely available tutorials providing instructions on basic computer skills:

  • Computer Basics Tutorials
    • – Free online learning including multiples courses in computer skills. Created by the Goodwill Community Foundation Inc. (also in ).
    • – A collection of self-directed tutorials for end-users to increase their digital literacy. Created by the Public Library Association.
    • – More intensive tutorial series covering computer basics, the Internet, and other computer fundamentals.
    • – Includes categories for building basic digital literacy skills and other resources.
    • – Tutorial for learning basic mouse skills. (also in )
    • – Resource to help beginning computer users become familiar with using a mouse. (also in )
    • – Free touch typing tutorial with no ads.
    • – Free typing lessons.
    • : Introduction to the internet for beginners from GCFLearnfree.org.
    • – Basic instruction on the anatomy and etiquette of using email by GCF Learnfree.org.
    • – Reviews and tips for using over 15 free email services.
    • – Tutorials and training materials from Microsoft for Office 2007, 2010, 2013 and Mac 2011.
    • – Search tool to find free local computer training and related resources.
  • Educator Resources
    • - Search for resources by skill, topic, or keyword from DigitalLiteracy.org.
    • – Downloadable curriculum guide to assist in using GCFLearnfree.org computer lessons.
    • – Online community to share ideas, best practices, and resources related to helping people attain new digital literacy skills.
    • from Microsoft including Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum Packages (requires account). Curriculums are available for various versions of Windows operating systems.
    • – Management and assessment that provides libraries including and resources for public access technology services.

Examples of Public Library Computer Literacy Programs

  • Cuyahoga County Public Library (OH)
  • Hennepin County Library (MN)
  • Holmes Public Library (MA)
  • Louisville Free Public Library (KY)
  • Monroe County Library System (MI)
  • Orange County Library System (FL)
  • Anythink Rangeview Library District (CO)
  • Skokie Public Library (IL)

Government Information Training Opportunities and Resources:

  • – Information and resources for libraries to better meet the E-Government needs of their users. Hosted by the at the University of Maryland and the 91´«Ã½.
  • – Information about Interagency Depository Seminars and Depository Library Council Meetings, which provide continuing education opportunities for those interested in government information.
  • – Locate a government information specialist in your state.
  • – A self-paced learning session available through covers government information reference interview techniques and basic websites to start within answering government-related questions.
  • – A wiki includes links to projects and the work of the Taskforce.
  • – Tutorials and handouts related to specific topics, government information products, and managing government information collections.
  • – A continuing education program to train reference and public services librarians and library workers in the use of government information.
  • Ask a Librarian – Live chat or email government information librarians.