Some tips on the best ways to use this resource

The overall aim of the website is to provide a one-stop information and learning resource for library staff relating to access and equal opportunities for disabled people: a web-based resource for public library staff.

The desired outcomes from use of the web-based resource for public library staff have been defined as:

• Increased confidence and competence for library staff in delivering library services for disabled people
• Improved customer care and services for users
• Development of outreach work and stronger community links
• Increased and productive consultation with disabled people
• Improved publicity, marketing and advocacy materials
• Development of access policies and plans
• Specific improvements such as clear signage, simplified membership procedures, better sharing of stock

This training package consists of 10 modules. It is designed to be a flexible self-study package, which can be used by individuals and groups from senior management to front-line staff. Each module is structured in the same way and requires you to do some reading or research, some practical tasks or activity and some evaluation.

Learning needs

Before beginning to use the package, with the help of your line manager, critical friend/mentor, you should complete the Learning Needs Analysis Form; this will help to identify your specific learning needs and which modules will best meet your individual learning needs and the needs of your post or job.

The purpose of the form is to help identify your learning needs in relation to supporting disabled users in your library service. There are three sections based on the Inspiring Learning for All Generic Learning Outcomes: knowledge, skills, and attitudes and values.

• There are a range of options to choose from and you need to select the one which best describes your level for each competency
• We would suggest that you complete a copy of the form and then meet with your line manager to finalise your form
• You will need about 20 minutes to complete the form. You should select the options where the description suits you best ; you will be able to talk this through with your line manager when you meet
• Together you will be able to discuss the competencies and any areas you haven't understood and agree your needs
• Remember to go with your initial responses to the options;  your form can be anonymous if you wish and the key information will be those areas where you indicate that you need to update your competencies
• Please print your completed form to keep a record of your learning needs

A time and place to study

Before starting, meet with your line manager and agree when and where you will be doing your learning. As many libraries have long opening hours and limited staff coverage, some flexibility will be needed so that your service does not suffer. We would recommend that you pace each module over a number of weeks (about 2 hours a week) and that you agree with your line manager a place to study as this is critical to your success. Agree a strategy with your line manager which suits both you and your service. It may include:

• Going to another library for a set period each week to allow you to study without interruption
• Allowing you to work overtime if you are part-time, in order to give you the extra time to complete the course
• Being relieved of one of your duties for the duration of the course
• Establishing a learning area either in the staff room or workroom, where you can study quietly, in a concentrated way with the respect and understanding of your colleagues

All the tasks have suggested timings attached to them as guidance. If you find that the tasks are taking you far longer than the suggested time, talk to your line manager about how this should be managed. Do not struggle on alone.

Getting started

• Set up a folder to keep your work in
• Start with Module 1
• Read through each module before you begin to work on it to get a complete picture of the task
• Discuss with your line manager any specific requirements such as access to equipment and book it or make arrangements to go elsewhere to use it

Sometimes a lack of confidence may hold you back, in which case explore with your line manager or mentor the option of working with a colleague or in a group until you feel more confident.

If you supervise others

If you line manage or supervise others, it advisable to familiarise yourself with the package and learning objectives of each of the modules before you schedule staff to begin. Ideally, line managers and supervisors should undertake some of the training modules before their staff, in order to gain first-hand experience of this method of learning. Your staff will need to discuss their learning needs with you when completing the Learning Needs Analysis form and may require guidance on the selection of suitable modules to fulfill the needs of their post or job. Some will need more help than others in using the Learning Needs Analysis Form. Use it as a guide to identify their priority needs and which modules to complete. Everyone should start with Module 1.

It is your responsibility to organise sufficient time on the timetable for staff to complete each module and where necessary provide adequate access to ICT or specialist equipment. Your staff may need to go to another library to study without interruption or to get experience of a busier environment or wider access to larger and more diverse stock.

You should ask staff regularly how they are getting on with their modules and explore with them any difficulties they may be encountering. Looking at completed modules together will help you assess progress and check whether time is being well spent. If staff do not manage to complete a module, you should explore with them the reasons why. They may lack confidence and need more support from you.

All staff should undertake at least Module 1 Understanding Disability with opportunities to undertake further modules as time and the demands of their post dictate. Regular chances to refresh knowledge and skills should be offered after the initial training has taken place. A record of what training staff have successfully undertaken should be kept.

These learning resources have been developed as part of the Framework for the Future Programme supported by MLA.

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