Library Selected to Boost Digital Literacy

Hamilton East Public Library is among more than 100 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association to increase digital literacy using Digitallearn.org resources, powered by a generous $2.7 million contribution from AT&T. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive and the new PLA Digital Navigator Workshop Incentive support public libraries in their work of improving basic digital skills among families and communities. The workshops will utilize DigitalLearn training materials, created in collaboration with AT&T, that are freely available to anyone through DigitalLearn.org and AT&T ScreenReady.

Hamilton East Public Library is working to help bridge the Digital Divide. They offer programs to help build basic technology skills, such as using email, navigating the internet, building cybersecurity awareness, knowing more about using Android/iOS devices, and more! Over the next few months, HEPL will increase its already robust computer and technology learning opportunities through this grant. And, for the first time ever, they’re offering some of those sessions in languages other than English.

“Our very mission, here at Hamilton East Public Library, is to be our community’s essential connector to information and ideas,” says HEPL’s Director of Public Services, Amber Wright. “One way we are continually working towards this is to help reduce the digital divide.”

PLA President Michael Lambert said, “PLA is proud to support public libraries in being at the forefront of boosting digital literacy skills and bridging the digital divide in their communities. With another year of PLA’s sustained collaboration with AT&T, more learners across the nation than ever before will get connected to vital digital literacy skills and technology resources at the library.”

PLA’s free training site, Digitallearn.org, helps community members build skills and confidence using technology. Hamilton East Public Library will help patrons utilize these resources in upcoming workshops. More details and a full listing of workshops can be found on HEPL’s Digital Literacy Workshop blog.