11 Sep 2023
AT&T and Public Library Association Offer Free Digital Literacy Training at DELRAY BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY for DELRAY BEACH Residents to Help Bridge the Digital Divide
In-person workshops build upon collection of virtual digital literacy courses created in collaboration with the Public Library Association
The Delray Beach Public Library is pleased to announce that it has received a grant to provide digital literacy workshops as part of its free fall programming. As part of AT&T’s* support for improving digital literacy nationwide, the company has partnered with the Public Library Association (PLA) to bring free bilingual, in-person digital literacy workshops to more than 200 libraries across 45 states. These contributions are part of AT&T’s commitment to address the digital divide through investments in internet accessibility, affordability and the safe use of technology.
The workshops will utilize online digital literacy courses available through AT&T ScreenReady® and PLA Digital Learn. Created in collaboration with PLA, the courses teach skills on: Computer Basics, Internet Basics & Email Basics.
The courses offered at the Delray Beach Public Library are:
COMPUTER BASICS – Learn how to navigate the Windows 10 operating system, manage applications using the task manager, find and manage files and folders, save, and delete files and more.
MONDAYS, SEPTEMBER 18, OCTOBER 23 & DECEMBER 4 at 2PM
INTERNET BASICS – In this workshop you will introduce newly connected users to basic terminology, functionality, and navigation of internet browsers, search engines and websites.
TUESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 19, OCTOBER 24, & MONDAY DECEMBER 11 at 2PM
EMAIL BASICS – Create a Gmail account, learn how to perform basic email functions like Send, Receive and Reply to an email, recognize and deal with spam, organize, and delete emails and search for messages.
WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 20, OCTOBER 25, & MONDAY DECEMBER 18 at 2PM
All classes must be registered in advance and are approximately 90 minutes in length. Small classes sizes allow for individual attention and take-home materials help with self-paced learning. Incentives will be rewarded on class completion.
Why is this important?
According to the U.S. Department of Education, about 16 percent of U.S. adults are not digitally literate. In addition, about 40% of disconnected students face significant adoption barriers including insufficient digital literacy skills, according to a report from Common Sense Media. Advancing these skills are crucial to helping bridge the digital divide. It’s important that students and their families not only have access to the internet and computers, but also have the tools needed to use that technology effectively, safely and responsibly.
The workshops at the Delray Beach Public Library are part of the second cohort of an expanded national initiative and collaboration between PLA and AT&T. “Our nation’s public libraries serve as powerful partners in advancing digital equity and lifelong learning for all,” said PLA Past President Maria McCauley. “PLA is excited to team up with AT&T to enhance and expand our digital literacy resources to reach new families and communities through AT&T, their Connected Learning Centers, and local organizations.”
Public libraries play a vital role in providing access to the internet, devices, and digital content, and knowledgeable staff to all — particularly to people of color and youth in low-income households. In 2019, nearly 54 million Americans accessed the internet in public places, and public libraries alone hosted nearly 224 million public internet use sessions.
In Delray Beach the digital divide is a big issue for many seniors and low-income households. As the world changes, and more services move on-line, understanding and having competency with digital skills is critical to remain connected to good, services, education, jobs and fight social isolation. The Delray Beach Public Library is pleased to add these programs to their already robust offerings of free learning opportunities. For a full list of all classes offered please view our digital brochure.
*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 to 2023 to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy and education solutions to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008, we’ve committed to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.
About 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 10,000 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 the Delray Beach Public Library
The Delray Beach Public Library is located on Atlantic Avenue in the heart of Delray Beach and is a 501c3 non-profit organization that serves as an essential community resource offering a wide range of services to meet the various needs of the community. Founded in 1913, the library offers patrons extensive book and media collections including audio books, databases, and digital resources. The Library has a variety of Technology Resources with over 40 computers open to the public and internet access, meeting rooms, and a range of programming for all ages.