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Technology Competencies: Devices/Operating Systems

This libguide contains a list of newly updated technology competencies for NC library staff. The competencies were revised by the State Library's Continuing Education Advisory Committee in 2015.

Devices and Operating Systems

Suggested Level Category Required Knowledge/Skill
1 Devices & operating systems Have an understanding/awareness of the following terms: Boot, CPU, Monitor, Hard drive, CD Rom, Flash drive/memory stick, Server, Mobile device, BYOD (bring your own device), Web site, Link, URL, Operating system (Macintosh, Windows), Browser (Firefox, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome), Search engine, OPAC or online catalog, Cloud, Intranet, Social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, Facebook, etc.), Blog, NC KNOWS (virtual reference chat), NC LIVE, LibGuides, Train Station, Webinar
1 Devices & operating systems Turn the computer on and off correctly, including restart
1 Devices & operating systems Turn the monitor on and off
1 Devices & operating systems Use mouse, keyboard, function keys, keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl C, Ctrl X, Ctrl V, and Ctrl P)
1 Devices & operating systems Understand the importance of backing up files
1 Devices & operating systems Know how to back up file onto removable media used in the library
1 Devices & operating systems Understand cables, power cords, on-off switches on all equipment
1 Devices & operating systems Know when and how to reboot a workstation 
1 Devices & operating systems Know how to use, perform basic trouble-shooting, and help others use the following library hardware: copier, printer, microfilm reader,  fax machine, scanner, laminating machine, adaptive & assistive technology, SmartBoard, any other publicly-accessible equipment or job-related library equipment
1 Devices & operating systems Know which staff members to contact when troubleshooting efforts fail
1 Devices & operating systems Recognize and know how to open desktop icons
1 Devices & operating systems Start a program from the Start menu
1 Devices & operating systems Resize, minimize, and maximize windows
1 Devices & operating systems Identify active window and switch between open applications
1 Devices & operating systems Use menus and toolbars
1 Devices & operating systems Use the Help feature in programs
1 Devices & operating systems Respond to dialog boxes
1 Devices & operating systems Empty recycle bin and restore files from recycle bin
1 Devices & operating systems Log onto computers
1 Devices & operating systems Be familiar with Internet security risks (e.g. email viruses, spy ware
1 Devices & operating systems Recognize characteristics of email and pop-up scams
1 Devices & operating systems Be aware of security precautions and software used in the library (e.g. firewall)
1 Devices & operating systems Know how to report potential threats/problems
2 Devices & operating systems Conduct a basic technology-based reference interview related to hardware or the operating system
2 Devices & operating systems Understand the differences between files and folders
2 Devices & operating systems Create, move, delete, and rename files and folders
2 Devices & operating systems Understand the meaning of commonly used file formats and extensions (such as .doc, .rtf, .ppt, .PDF)
2 Devices & operating systems Know how, when, and why to back up files to the appropriate location 
2 Devices & operating systems Understand and help others back up files to removable media, devices, or network
2 Devices & operating systems Use Ctrl-Alt-Delete and the Task Manager to close non-responsive programs
2 Devices & operating systems Know local policies and procedures about operating systems and where to find additional help information 
2 Devices & operating systems Understand library’s policies and procedures on computer security: know who to call and/or how to report a problem
2 Devices & operating systems Be familiar with commonly used mobile devices such as the ipad, tablet, smartphone, e-readers, etc.
2 Devices & operating systems Understand ebook and audiobook file types and compatible devices
2 Devices & operating systems Know how to or to power on/off and navigate on commonly used mobile devices
2 Devices & operating systems Know how to locate available wifi networks, establish a wifi connection, and transfer content (including e-books and audiobooks) on a variety of mobile devices
2 Devices & operating systems Understand how to and assist others in downloading ebook & audiobook content
2 Devices & operating systems Know library policy about the use of apps and the library’s commonly used apps
2 Devices & operating systems Understand how, when, and why to access the app store on different mobile devices
2 Devices & operating systems Able to find, download, and delete apps on a variety of mobile devices
2 Devices & operating systems Able to connect mobile devices to wireless printing 
2 Devices & operating systems Know what mobile devices are available for check-out
2 Devices & operating systems Know where to find resources for operating and/or troubleshooting mobile devices
2 Devices & operating systems Know library policy about patron devices
2 Devices & operating systems Know and be able to communicate library policies about charging patron devices
3 Devices & operating systems Know and troubleshoot common plug-ins (Acrobat, Flash)