Tech-savvy teens tutor seniors

A group of technically talented teens put their gadget mastery to good use at the Baldwin Public Library on March 2, tutoring a gathering of seniors on the proper use of their gizmos and gear. A half dozen young people between ages 11 and 17 showed up early to enjoy pizza in the community room before their more mature clients began peppering them with questions.

Taina Charles, Hillary Karl-Otto, Justin Thompson and Amanda Coffey were among the early arrivals, and offered a variety of reasons for getting involved in the program. Taina, who wore a ponytail and has a fondness for computers, said she volunteered when her school suggested she get involved in community service and Justin, who hopes to one day work in aviation, said a confluence of interests brought him to the BPL. “I like helping people and I’m good with technology,” he said between bites of pizza. “It seemed like a fun thing to do.”

The program began with Jill Holleufer, the head of Young Adult services at the library, offering the seniors teen assistance with devices like iPods, computers, digital cameras and cell phones as well as digital services like Web surfing and online messaging. During the session, which ran from 6 to 8:30 p.m., a crowded room in the Young Adult department came to resemble a technological MASH unit as younger and older participants punched keys, took notes and shared laughs.

“Teens know their tech inside and out, and grownups can barely answer their cell phones,” said Holleufer, explaining the inspiration for the session. She added that a second program was already being planned, though she didn’t yet have a definite date. She suggested that interested seniors have their grandchildren help them check baldwinpl.org for details.

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