RPL offers new digital skills resource

Northstar PosterRodman Public Library is offering Northstar Digital Literacy, a new resource for anyone looking to improve their skills with computers, software, or technology.

In addition, Rodman Library will serve as a proctor site, offering certification in conjunction with Northstar Digital Literacy.

Northstar Digital Literacy is a self-directed assessment and learning tool that covers a variety of technology scenarios. It comes complete with short lessons and practice exercises to improve skills on a number of common computer topics. The Northstar resource is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on the library’s webpage, and library staff members are available to help with the resource during regular hours.

Interactive digital literacy test and certification topics include:

  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Internet Basics
  • Using Email
  • Windows and Mac Operating Systems
  • Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Google Docs
  • Career Search Skills
  • Supporting K-12 Distance Learning
  • Social Media and Your Digital Footprint

 

Those wishing to utilize Northstar Digital Literacy will access the services from rodmanlibrary.com and will be able to take a self-guided assessment test, explains D.J. Digianantonio, head of reference services at Rodman Public Library. From there, patrons will be guided in a number of lessons in areas where they need to improve their skills.

Patrons who wish to have proof of their basic computer knowledge can then schedule an appointment at the library to take a test proctored by a member of the Reference Department staff. For those who pass the assessments, Rodman Library will certify the results. This certification can be useful for both job seekers who want to demonstrate their proficiency and employers who are seeking assurance of skills.

To access from rodmanlibrary.com, hover on the Find Information tab in the blue navigation bar below the library logo and then click on Research Databases. From there, click on the Jobs and Continuing Education category, or search alphabetically.

Ohio library access to Northstar is funded through a federal Institute of Museum and Library Services ARPA grant awarded by the State Library of Ohio.

For more information, call 330-821-2665, ext. 217.