Amy VanDeVelde from The Oasis Institute talked about the most common scams seen during the pandemic and provided tips and resources participants can use to avoid these scams.

Amy VanDeVelde, National Technology Program Director of The Oasis Institute, introduces viewers to a variety of digital divides, potential solutions for families, and cybersecurity best practices.

Use of the internet is a necessity for digital late adopters. Teaching device and software use is one thing. Teaching them online safety is another. This webinar acquainted participants with the technology lingo and concepts that often alienate digital late adopters but are best practices for all users of the internet. Attendees were introduced to a training model and mini-lessons that can then be replicated in your own community. The presenter is Amy VanDeVelde, National Technology Program Director, The Oasis Institute.

Charles Steinhaus, MOREnet network engineer, and Patti Dudenhoeffer, MOREnet security analyst, discuss network infrastructure and security.

Libraries serve as an enormous resource to citizens, communities, and the regions they serve, and in many cases offer the only computer lab available to the public. Governor Parson is championing the deployment of high speed internet to rural Missouri, and libraries can play an important role in convening conversations about expanding broadband in your area. Tim Arbeiter, Missouri’s Director of Broadband Development, and Hank Niederhelm, MOREnet’s Director of Infrastructure provided an overview of the fundamentals Broadband terms, issues, and network operations.

Differently-abled patrons exist in every community. What can public libraries do to be more welcoming to these patrons? Incorporate assistive technologies! Ranging from low-tech braille signage to specialized software and devices, assistive technologies help to increase the independence of these patrons. This webinar will cover: making your library’s websites and documents accessible to patrons using screen reader software, learning about software that can be used to make public access computers and smart devices accessible, discovering the steps your library can take to make sure online resources are accessible to patrons with disabilities. Presented by Amy Nickless, Adult Services Librarian, Wolfner Talking Book and Braille Library.

Social isolation has impacted many during the Covid-19 pandemic. St. Louis County Library developed two unique approaches using technology to bring people together once again. Learn how GrandPads, a senior-friendly tablet, and portable projectors made these connections possible. Presented by Eric Button, deputy director at St. Louis County Library, on September 21, 2021.

There is an ever-increasing need to connect with patrons virtually and webinars are the perfect solution! This session will examine the best tools and practices of webinar presentations to help you provide a satisfying experience for your patrons. The presenter is Julie Cox, Reference Services' Outreach and Training Librarian.