{"id":33232,"date":"2025-06-27T10:03:48","date_gmt":"2025-06-27T15:03:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/?p=33232"},"modified":"2025-07-18T09:22:33","modified_gmt":"2025-07-18T14:22:33","slug":"tx-library-visits-reflection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/2025\/06\/27\/tx-library-visits-reflection\/","title":{"rendered":"Stepping into Public Libraries:\u00a0What I Learned on the Road Across Texas"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the new Digital Literacy Consultant at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC), I had the great experience of traveling with my colleagues in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ldn\/cec\">Continuing Education and Consulting (CEC) team<\/a> across different regions in Texas meeting and connecting with public libraries. I am a former school librarian (15 years), so not only am I new to this job, I\u2019m also new to the public library side of the profession. The purpose of our library visits was to provide professional development as part of the Continuing Education workshop series, but for me it was also a valuable opportunity to learn more about the role of public libraries, especially their use of technology, and to better understand how I can support their evolving digital needs.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Library Visits<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over the course of five weeks, we facilitated two-day workshops at multiple library sites (with day one focused on circulation policies and day two on fundamental de-escalation strategies), and between formal workshop locations, we made supportive site visits to other public libraries along our route.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I saw fantastic programming, services I hadn\u2019t realized libraries offered, and the most selfless, dedicated staff working tirelessly to meet the unique needs of their community often implemented with limited resources and remarkable ingenuity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Innovative library services and resources I hadn\u2019t seen before:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.printful.com\/blog\/what-is-sublimation-printing\">Sublimation printing<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/texaslawhelp.org\/directory\/virtual-court-kiosk-harlingen-public-library\">Virtual court kiosks<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mobile phone assistance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Citizenship resources<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Music and podcast recording studios<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Telehealth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/C3lPtxNJDmg\/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==\">Ghost-detector kits<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This experience reinforced why I&#8217;m passionate about library work and gave me invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs happening in communities across Texas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Technology Snapshot<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because technology is at the heart of my role, I polled the attendees throughout our visits on their technology services and experience. I wanted to find out how public libraries are using technology and about their challenges, successes, and needs so I could better understand how to support them. The 106 responses I got revealed that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Libraries offer a wide array of opportunities to meet their patrons\u2019 technology needs from teaching basic computer skills and helping with cell phone use to offering 3D printing and AI programming. Many are especially excelling in providing one-on-one tech help and supporting patrons with workforce-related needs.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For most libraries, the most pressing tech needs are better computers and better Wi-Fi.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The top emerging community need is providing technology and digital literacy support for seniors with providing workforce support services in a close second.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AI is the top tool librarians want more information and training on. Second was media literacy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The two most requested types of support from the Digital Literacy Consultant were resource\/tool recommendations, followed closely by staff training opportunities.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Program development ideas, resource\/tool recommendations, and staff training were the top three types of support participants said they\u2019d find most helpful.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The site visits and tech questionnaires were quite illuminating\u2013I got the insight, feedback, and direction I needed. The technology poll results will be used to guide future initiatives and support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Digital Literacy Consultant Services<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the Digital Literacy Consultant, I am here to support libraries with their technology services and digital literacy programming by providing technical assistance, guidance,&nbsp; training, and consultative services in several key areas that include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Emerging technologies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Digital skills development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Online privacy and cybersecurity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Media literacy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Programming<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ploud (the Public Libraries in the Cloud website platform)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Telehealth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tech planning and policies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How to assess technology needs of community<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Looking Forward<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every library we visited had a story. Whether they were navigating new spaces or launching programs, one thing was clear: libraries in Texas are doing remarkable work, often with limited resources. Being on the road with my colleagues gave me a fuller picture of what digital literacy looks like in practice\u2014and how we can continue to support it statewide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As I settle back into the office, I&#8217;m energized by what I witnessed across Texas and am ready to turn the insight I gained into meaningful support to help libraries continue the essential work they do. I look forward to working with everyone! Feel free to reach out to me at <a href=\"mailto:etdominguez@tsl.texas.gove\">etdominguez@tsl.texas.gov<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, CEC will be hitting the road again this fall, providing three new workshop opportunities. We hope to see you there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Harlingen-Court-Kiosk.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"545\" height=\"410\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Harlingen-Court-Kiosk.jpg\" alt=\"black desk with a computer monitor, a thin keyboard, a printer\/scanner, and a plastic display holder for 8x10 paper. The content showing on the monitor and on the paper in the plastic display features information on virtual court services\" class=\"wp-image-33234\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Harlingen-Court-Kiosk.jpg 545w, https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Harlingen-Court-Kiosk-300x226.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 545px) 100vw, 545px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Virtual Court Kiosk at the Harlingen Public Library<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/STEM-Central.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"624\" height=\"243\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/STEM-Central.jpg\" alt=\"wide open space room; columns; large quilting table; laser cutter and leather making equipment\/ shelf with board games; two rectangular tables pushed together with chairs; back wall shows bulleting boards with informational flyers.\" class=\"wp-image-33244\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/STEM-Central.jpg 624w, https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/STEM-Central-300x117.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 624px) 100vw, 624px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">STEAM Central at the Tom Green County Library System<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Centre-Future.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"624\" height=\"340\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Centre-Future.jpg\" alt=\"left image shows a small room lit up by a blue light; clear center table; two arm chairs in the right two corners; the image to the right show a large dimly-lit, open space room with a zebra pattern rug; cafe tables and stools; soft seating and loung chairs; two desks with rolling chairs to the right\" class=\"wp-image-33245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Centre-Future.jpg 624w, https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Centre-Future-300x163.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 624px) 100vw, 624px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Podcast Room in the Centre Future Room of the newly-opened El Paso Public Library Main Branch<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Teen-Space.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"462\" height=\"347\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Teen-Space.jpg\" alt=\"large open space room with gray cement-like floor; colorful soft seating ottomans and geometrical tables; computers on tables that are aligned against the right wall; rolling chairs; two television nook areas with rugs and lounge seating to the left; TVs are showing KPop videos; \" class=\"wp-image-33246\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Teen-Space.jpg 462w, https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Teen-Space-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 462px) 100vw, 462px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">New Teen space at the El Paso Public Library<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Marathon.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"544\" height=\"407\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Marathon.jpg\" alt=\"large open space room with wooden floors; row of narrow computer tables in the center with Mac computers on top; bookshelves and people browsing through the books\" class=\"wp-image-33247\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Marathon.jpg 544w, https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Marathon-300x224.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 544px) 100vw, 544px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Computer area in the Marathon Public Library\u2019s brand-new facility set to open this summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As the new Digital Literacy Consultant at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC), I had the great experience of traveling with my colleagues in the Continuing Education and Consulting (CEC) team across different regions in Texas meeting and connecting with public libraries. I am a former school librarian (15 years), so not only&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":68,"featured_media":33114,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_s2mail":"yes","footnotes":""},"categories":[1010,59,15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-33232","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-digital-literacy","category-public-libraries","category-technology"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33232","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/68"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33232"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33232\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33339,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33232\/revisions\/33339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/33114"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33232"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33232"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tsl.texas.gov\/ld\/librarydevelopments\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33232"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}