Hillsdale Library: Tech Help (age 18+)

Do you always get asked by friends and family members to help with their tech issues — and love it? Share your tech skills with library patrons who need help with mobile devices, websites, password and account management, e-readers, getting started with tech, and more. Tech Help sessions involve working with people one-on-one and using a variety of devices. Empower patrons by improving their technology skills and their access to information! 

Location: Hillsdale Library, 1525 SW Sunset Blvd, Portland, OR 97239

Time commitment: One weekly 2-hour shift for a minimum of 6 months

Available shifts: Sundays 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Tasks & Responsibilities

  • Help people use the Internet and assist with their email accounts.
  • Teach patron resources related to Microsoft Office, Google Docs, Home Office and other office productivity software.
  • Assist patrons with learning about personal electronic devices like e-readers, cell phones, laptop computers, tablets and various applications.
  • Highlight the impact of our program by tracking key statistics after each session.
  • Please note, we do not perform repairs or troubleshoot equipment problems or failures.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Enjoy teaching people new skills and problem-solving with others
  • Patience to work with novice computer and smartphone users
  • Proficient knowledge of basic computer and smartphone components, Internet, and email
  • Proficient knowledge of computer software & smartphone apps, or the desire to learn it
  • Ability to work independently
  • Enjoy working with people with diverse educational, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Ability to work with older adults
  • Age 18 or older
  • Ability to pass a criminal record check if 18 years or older. Results of the records check will be reviewed on an individualized basis. A conviction is not an automatic bar to volunteering.
  • Ability to fluently speak and read English

Benefits

  • Share your technology experience with the community
  • Empower people to use technology
  • Promote lifelong learning
  • Learn more about adult learning styles
  • Get frontline experience working with library patrons

Training

  • Virtual Tech Help training via Zoom
  • Shadowing session with another volunteer or staff
  • Site orientation at library location before volunteer shift begins