Crook County Library System was recently among over 100 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association (PLA) 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.
“We have a very diverse population within Crook County and each of the three towns. Our three branches, their patrons, and programming are very different,” said Moorcroft Branch Manager, Serena Buckner. “One thing we all have in common is patrons that visit the library for help with digital tasks.”
The libraries in Crook County have noticed an increase in patrons needing help scanning documents and emailing information due to various entities switching to digital submissions for paperwork and patrons aren’t familiar with the format. Crook County Library System staff members also get many requests from patrons needing help with setting up and using cell phones, signing documents digitally, printing photos, finding forms online, and many other digital tasks.
“We are not aware of any programs in our area that offer basic digital literacy classes or training, and we have been discussing the need for basic digital courses within our community for some time. We have struggled with where to start and how to get the information and training needed to best serve our communities,” said Serena. “This program gives us that starting point we were missing. Our focus will be on our older patrons who struggle with basic digital skills.”
Congratulations to the Crook County Library System, and best wishes on your exciting digital literacy project!