Wanted: Tech-Savvy Administrators

Michael Stephens has some valuable things to say in his post, aptly titled "Training with the Branch Heads (Library Administrators Please Read)."  From his self-summary:

Adminstrators: look for teaching/learning opportunities for your librarians and encourage them. Lead by example as well! A plugged-in, "in the know" adminstrator can really sell new technologies and plans to the staff. And don't be fooled -- if you are afraid of your computer - your staff knows it!

Darn tootin'.  It's one thing to have technical staff plugging technology to the rest of the staff.  It's another thing entirely if 1) the administrators are comfortable and familiar with technology and 2) the administrators encourage technology developments and skills. 

Not every new "tech" idea should have to come from the tech staff.  Just as administrators will often come up with community outreach ideas or collection ideas for the rest of the staff, so too should they be coming up with technology ideas. 

How?  Be involved on technology listservs.  Read the "tech" sections of library publications.  Read some good library technology weblogs or online publications.  That's where the good ideas have been coming form as of late.  Administrators don't have to know every little thing about technology, but at least (pleeeeeease) be familiar with it and discuss it with your staff.  If you don't, you are turning a blind eye to a huge area of librarianship.  And your staff will know.  Believe me.