TEEN TECH EXPERTS

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

Teen Tech Experts is a program that offers a volunteer opportunity for selected teens to provide technological assistance to library customers at the Perry Branch Library in Gilbert, Arizona. Teen Tech Experts help customers solve a variety of technical challenges as they access Maricopa County Library District’s electronic resources. Teen Tech Experts assist with library downloads, email accounts, social networking accounts, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, privacy settings and basic homework help. They also help with a variety of devices including Nooks, Kindles, tablets, smart phones, computers and iPads. The purpose of Teen Techs is to connect outstanding teen volunteers with the community in a meaningful way. Teens are given an opportunity to earn volunteer hours that are vital to the college admissions process. Customers are given one-on-one help with a myriad of technological questions. As the Maricopa County Library District continues to grow our electronic collection to meet the needs of our communities, such a program is instrumental in providing access to, and awareness of, these electronic resources. The Teen Tech Experts have assisted over 200 customers during the pilot program since October 2013. Customers became excited about the digital collection as they became more confident with using their various devices. Teens developed skills that will transfer to the world of work and higher education, such as following instructions and training expectations, reliably reporting for assigned volunteer times, and interacting with customers in a friendly and professional manner.