A career built on bridging the digital divide @ Role of LIS Professional
As a librarian, Dr Greg Morgan has always helped people access critical information. Now, he is making sure that technology transformation will not lead to a ‘digital disadvantage’ for certain members of society.
The realities of the digital divide in New Zealand are being played out daily in the country’s public libraries.
“Every day, our librarians help people get their first email account so they can take advantage of online government and commercial services,” says Dr Greg Morgan, head of digital solutions and innovation at Auckland Libraries.
For Morgan, this highlights another chasm in the digitalisation of society.
“Over the years, more and more people have been able to use digital technology and go online. As the divide has narrowed for many people, it has widened for others,” he says. “These are people who don't have confidence using computers or access to good technology.”
“We often talk about information literacy which is the ability to locate, evaluate and use information. But some of the barriers to information literacy are very basic, maybe access to a PC or laptop.”
He cites a common example faced by people who he says are at an ‘information disadvantage’. Online services provide FAQs (frequently asked questions) and other help, but people unfamiliar with transacting online often cannot benefit from this self-service assistance.
He says that librarians over the years have always had to counter assumptions that librarians read all day.
“The job of librarians is much more about people, society and the information management that adds value for them.”
Librarians have an innate respect for ideas, culture and social identity, he says. “They need to like people and learn how they think; understand how communities express themselves.”
“Libraries are all about trust,” he says. “We know that members of the public really trust libraries. They come to us for assistance with their questions and information.”
Focusing on the user experience is essential, he says. Auckland Libraries seek to be responsive to the realities of a growing and increasingly diverse Auckland.
Full Article Available @ https://www.cio.co.nz/article/641347/career-built-bridging-digital-divide/
Regards
Mr. Pralhad Jadhav
Master of Library & Information Science (NET Qualified)
Senior Manager @ Knowledge Repository
Khaitan & Co
Twitter Handle | @Pralhad161978
Mobile @ 9665911593
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