The Brandon Free Public Library (BFPL) is among 160 libraries nationwide to conduct digital literacy trainings funded by PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T. BFPL is among over 160 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association (PLA) to conduct digital literacy workshops using Digitallearn.org resources. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T, provides support to libraries of all sizes to conduct digital literacy training in their communities and help close the digital divide.
Many patrons have expressed a desire for basic technology training workshops, especially our patrons who are Senior citizens. We hope to reach those patrons, as well as community members who don’t often access the library and can benefit from these services. BFPL will be using the $4,000 in grant funds to support material needs and operating costs of hosting these classes. We will also purchase tablets and laptops that will enhance the library’s capacity to support multiple learners. Workshops will cover subjects including internet basics, cybersecurity basics, email, tablet use, and video conferencing.
“The mission of libraries has always been about equitable access to information, literacy, learning, and culture. In the age of COVID-19, this mission has only become vital as libraries have played a critical role in keeping communities connected and online,” said PLA President Maria McCauley. “A 2020 PLA survey found that about 88% of public libraries provide some form of digital literacy support, but only 42% offer formal classes. Staffing and funding were the top barriers to providing technology training. AT&T’s investment with PLA and public libraries nationwide will boost access to digital literacy skills for the most vulnerable in our communities.”
PLA’s free training site, Digitallearn.org, helps community members build skills and confidence using technology. BFPL will help patrons utilize these resources in an upcoming workshop that will be conducted in person at Brandon Public Library on September 14th at 1pm. More details will be announced this fall.
Brandon Free Public Library’s mission is to provide a friendly and safe atmosphere in which patrons of all ages may enrich their lives through the benefit and pleasure of learning and discovery. The BFPL pledges quality service demonstrating respect for the individual and our community.
The public library is a unique cultural institution within the community in that it is the only one that freely provides opportunities for educational growth and personal development throughout the individual’s lifetime.
About the Public Library Association
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.
About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T
We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities. And improving lives. As part of our companywide $2 billion commitment from 2021–2023 to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions. We aim to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008, we’ve committed more than $600 million to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.