How do libraries meet the needs of our 50+ year old patrons?

Aesta pointed out one of the great challenges that face libraries today.  This certainly pertains the adult services aspect of our group so we can have this conversation easily without bringing in the technology aspect.  However I do see the two as connected.  Many of our older patrons that I've talked to seem put off by technological advances in the library world from the online catalog to the self check out machines.  Whenever we adopt any technology there are positive and negative consequences and in this case perhaps some of our loyal patrons may feel left behind, that the library isn't as friendly a place as they remember.  At the same time it isn't just the library that goes through technological overhauls, it is the entire world.

I see this as an opportunity to help educate our patrons, start giving them an idea of the positive effects of the tools we use, the tools they can use, so they aren't as put off by the drawbacks of technology.  I mentioned in the meeting today the computer classes we offer, and the positive experiences that come out of those.  What else can we do to bridge that gap?  I encourage you to check out a video on our website http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lhw-qIRWld0.  Rita Gretschmann came up with a great idea of the use for the multimedia macs that allow her to have more contact with her grandchildren.  What other advantages of the library can we show other patrons who feel left out?  How can we train them to participate comfortably?  Mollie wanted some ideas about technology being used to enhance programming and I feel this fits right into that same stream of thought.  Lets hear what you guys have to say.

Prediction: The Kindle Goes Down in FLAMES

Prediction: The Kindle Goes Down in FLAMES: "

Someone at the Oxford University Press seems to think that the Amazon Kindle is selling like hotcakes. All I have to say about this is: "are y...

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