Give Tech Help at Holgate Library

Do you always get asked by friends and family members to help with their tech issues — and love it? Share your tech skills with library patrons who need help with mobile devices, websites, password/account management, e-readers, getting started with tech, and more. Tech Help sessions involve working with people one-on-one and using a variety of devices. Empower patrons by improving their technology skills and their access to information!

Location: Holgate Library, 7905 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland, OR 97206

Time commitment: One weekly 2-hour shift for a minimum of 6 months

Available shifts: Tuesdays, 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Help people use the Internet and assist with their email accounts
• Teach patron resources related to Microsoft Office, Google Docs, Home Office and other office productivity software
• Assist patrons with learning about personal electronic devices like e-readers, cell phones, laptop computers, tablets and various applications
• Highlight the impact of our program by tracking key statistics after each session.
• Please note, we do not perform repairs or troubleshoot equipment problems or failures.

Skills & Qualifications

• Enjoy teaching people new skills and problem-solving with others.
• Patience to work with novice computer/smartphone users.
• Proficient knowledge of basic computer & smartphone components, Internet, and email
• Proficient knowledge of computer software & smartphone apps, or the desire to learn it
• Ability to work independently
• Enjoy working with people with diverse educational, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work with older adults
• Age 16 or older
• Ability to pass a criminal record check if 18 years or older. Results of the records check will be reviewed on an individualized basis. A conviction is not an automatic bar to volunteering.
• Ability to fluently speak and read English. Additional languages are welcome!

Benefits

• Share your technology experience with the community
• Empower people to use technology
• Promote lifelong learning
• Learn more about adult learning styles
• Get frontline experience working with library patrons

Training

• Virtual Tech Help training via Zoom
• Shadowing session with another volunteer or staff
• Site orientation at library location before volunteer shift begins