Duane Hicks
With technology having become an important aspect of public libraries, making sure it is accessible to everyone has become a mandate.
That’s where Jeremy Hughes steps in.
Hughes is the new computer program trainer at the Fort Frances Public Library Technology Centre—and he wants local residents to know he’s here to help.
A part-time position funded through the federal Community Access Program (CAP), Hughes’ job is to provide computer support and training, with particular emphasis on individual computer training and assisting patrons with new adaptive equipment and software.
In simpler terms, Hughes said he’ll teach folks just about anything to do with technology, with a particular focus on library services.
“If somebody wants to learn to use an e-reader, or learn basic computing skills, or learn how to do their e-mail or get on Facebook or other social media like Twitter,” he explained.
“Someone might see Twitter mentioned on a commercial on TV and are like, ‘Hey, what’s all about?’
“I can show them that.
“I had a guy in yesterday who had a brand new iPad,” added Hughes. “I showed him how to use it. How to browse the Internet, how to use iTunes, how to use the camera, I set him up on Skype.
“Skype will probably be a focus because that’s something that people really like.
“But it’s not just Apple stuff,” Hughes stressed. “All of the stuff in the library is Windows-based, so if they want to learn but are intimidated by a computer, I can do anything.
“From as simple as how to move a mouse properly to how to operate a window on a screen, navigating folders, play with pictures, or go online.”
Hughes said there are many ways people can use technology to access library services.
“You can take out books electronically at home for your e-reader or on your computer,” he noted.
“You can get audiobooks, you can check on your library account at home—renew items, check when they’re due, do all that sort of stuff.”
With so many types of devices out there nowadays, Hughes said some people struggle with all the options. For example, e-books can be read on your phone, iPad or similar tablet, computer, and, of course, a host of different e-readers.
“I had one appointment with someone and we talked about everything [to do with e-readers],” he recalled. “We talked about e-ink and tablets and proprietary e-book formats, and then we went through the process of how to get [e-books] online.
“You can do it at home,” he remarked. “You just need a library card and it’s free—it’s the same as taking out a book.”
Hughes also has helped people using the library’s computer lab, and will be assisting those accessing the Shaw Communications room for videoconferencing.
He recently aided some people in viewing a funeral which was broadcast via the Internet.
Hughes said he also is able to help people out with digital cameras.
For now, Hughes is meeting with library patrons one-on-one. Eventually, however, he will hold seminars on specific topics, like e-readers, online safety, and more.
Hughes stressed he’s approachable and is open to people’s suggestions as to what they would like to see taught in a group setting.
There’s no doubt the public is interested in learning more about the ever-increasing technologies available at the library. Hughes started the job last month and found there already was a waiting list of people looking for tech help.
He’s met with 10 appointments as of last Thursday and the “feedback has been very positive.”
To make an appointment with Hughes, ask at the library’s front desk or call 274-9879.
You also can e-mail Hughes at cpt.ffpltc@gmail.com
In the near future, Hughes also will be posting his schedule on the library’s website at library.fort-frances.com
Just go to the library’s website and click on “computer program training” on the left-hand side.
“I’m here to help,” said Hughes, who grew up in Toronto and went to university in Ottawa.
But he moved to Fort Frances where his parents (Joan and Michael Hughes) reside.
