Information and digital literacy in education via the digital path

Web literacy” describes a critical set of skills needed to participate online, including how to navigate the internet, understand basic web mechanics, and safely share information. Using materials developed by the Mozilla Foundation, the Digital Skills for Digital Librarians project piloted web literacy skills training in eight public library systems and one graduate program in order to equip library staff with the knowledge needed to meet the growing digital needs and desires of their communities. This evaluation reports on the successes and challenges faced by the pilots as they adapted the web literacy curriculum to serve the needs of their public library staff and patrons.

The quality of service provided to the public by library and information science institutions depends on the expertise of their staff.  Constant flux in the needs of societies, changing technologies, and growth in professional knowledge demand that information workers must expand their understanding and update their skills on an ongoing basis. As stated in the IFLA/UNESCO Public Library Manifesto 1994:

The librarian is an active intermediary between users and resources. Professional and continuing education of the librarian is indispensable to ensure adequate services.

Because adequate service depends on staff who are well prepared and continuously learning, the quality of ongoing educational opportunities is of vital concern.  This document sets forth principles that should assure high quality continuing professional development for library staff. It has been developed on behalf of IFLA’s Continuing Professional Development and Workplace Learning Section (CPDWL), with input from its members and small project funding from IFLA.