2020 in Libraries

a view of the library from the top of the stairs showing a gorgeous circular reference desk with a librarian talking with a patron

Like many people, I had bigger plans this year than I managed to realize. However, I did get to two new libraries which was decent for a year that saw only twenty-seven library visits total, with nineteen of them at the same library. The full list is short but memorable. I really hope to get back to the Goodrich Library in Newport again, it’s got a great collection and incredibly nice staff.

Previous years: 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 and some reviews from 2003.

  • Kimball – my local, weekly drop-in time and occasionally pinch hitting for shifts
  • Rochester – did some irregular drop-in time here
  • Hartness – did not get to VTC as much as I’d like
  • Pittsfield – had an empty drop-in time but it was cool to see this tiny library with an actual paid staff member now
  • Goodrich/Newport – I did a First Wednesdays talk here and it was really enjoyable
  • Montpelier – Don’t remember why I stopped by, but I always like visiting here
  • VT Law – Hadn’t been here in a while and I stopped by before meeting a pal in SoRo
  • Concord NH – Stopped in here while spending some time bumming around Concord with Jim

Ask A Librarian: Senior-Friendly Devices?

hands of two men using a tablet computer

I’m working with a Council on Aging and they are looking for “senior-friendly” devices to purchase for their participants, ideally tablets that are also budget friendly. Does anyone have any recommendations? Are there any resources that exist to help people compare devices?

My opinion, as someone who works with seniors all the time who struggle with various devices, is that any device can be set up to be “senior friendly” and a lot of this will depend what other technology, if any, exists in their world.

So for someone who had a Mac, even an old Mac, an iPad is the right answer (could be an old iPad, they are remarkably useful still). Someone with a Windows laptop wouldn’t get as many “it just works” effects from one. I feel like the important part is setting up tablets to work for people which involves… Continue reading “Ask A Librarian: Senior-Friendly Devices?”