Without a Net

Starred review from October 1, 2011

Nontechnical patrons and librarians educated before computers often suffer from "technostress": the fear of, and reluctance to learn, new technologies. Not everyone is online, yet modern life demands computer proficiency. Patrons turn to their public libraries to fill their knowledge void; therefore librarians need to learn enough to teach the most elementary computer concepts. West (community manager, MetaFilter.com), a freelance technology librarian who advises rural libraries in Vermont, explains the bare bones of computers and computer-related technology. She covers all the basics and defines terms so that a library can assess its own tech needs for its particular demographic and can understand how to prepare for teaching classes, knowing basic computer components and the Internet, how to set up an email address, and understand different forms of software. She offers advice on how to troubleshoot and support a library's systems. VERDICT Librarians who feel lost in the technical revolution will find this book an essential guide to help familiarize themselves with basic computer usage and terms. West explains all elementary concepts in a friendly, sympathetic way. Even the most reluctant librarians, information providers, or users will find confidence in this easy-to-understand primer.--Lisa Guidarini, Algonquin P.L., IL

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