User Manuals, Tips, and Guidesheets

Presented by Barbara Simpson Darden and Committee

Attendees recommended that the Training Committee work on a number of projects to aid librarians and users:

• Prepare cheat sheets for placement next to computers.
• Encourage librarians who have prepared their own guides and manuals to share these resources with all VALE members.
• Use database links to vendors for information.
• Create a "best practices" VALE site.
• Consider the various skills levels of users when creating materials.
• Consider the needs of distance learners when creating materials.
• Put all of the online tutorials in one easy to locate place. The listserv was suggested as a convenient place.
• Distribute a list of those who have been trained in using the VALE databases so that members can contact them for assistance.

Robert Lackie, from Rider University, explained the VALE CORRADO listserv and showed attendees how to join and access archives. Some questions asked were:

• Is the content of the listserv indexed?

No. However, one person suggested that it may be helpful to receive listserv messages as a digest. Messages will post daily in one long message with a table of contents.

• How do I see all of the VALE databases available?

Click on About VALE on the VALE homepage.

Each session ended with a database demonstration and a Q & A session on how to access help pages and locate specific information.