WebJunction PAComputing is a new community where library staff meet for technical support for computers granted by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

In this extract from The Accidental Systems Librarian, Rachel Singer Gordon applies the same techniques used from the all familiar reference interview, and creates some basic guidelines that can use for a technical support interview when troubleshooting computers.

The Accidental Systems Librarian takes the approach that anyone with a solid foundation in the practices and principles of librarianship and a willingness to confront changing technology can serve effectively in a library technology position—with or without formal computer training. Author Rachel Singer Gordon’s practical advice on using research, organizational, and bibliographic skills to solve various systems problems is geared to helping “accidental” systems librarians develop the skills they need to succeed and the confidence they need to excel. An essential book for any librarian who wants to deal more effectively with technology in her or his institution.

A librarian and technical expert join forces in this thorough and easy-to-understand primer. Expansive and practical, it offers detailed how-tos, nine reproducible forms, and inspiring stories from libraries that have demystified the technology implementation process.