The Older Adult and Public Library Computer Technology: A Pilot Study in a Canadian Setting

Abstract

Six public library users aged 65 years and over were interviewed concerning their attitudes, experiences and issues with public library computer technology. Two participants used online public access catalogues regularly; four had some form of computer anxiety or aversion that inhibited use. Previous experience with computers or card catalogue use predisposed users to attempt to use OPACs. The reasons for not using the OPACs included difficulty with the interface, insufficient librarian help, poor or absent written instructions, and inadequate time to learn. None of the participants used any other computer information sources. Results suggest that this cohort is under-utilising library computer technology despite an overall positive attitude towards computers.