St. Mary’s County Library in Leonardtown, Md., is making waves in the digital literacy realm after being chosen as one of the lucky recipients of funding from the Public Library Association (PLA) to bolster digital skills using resources from DigitalLearn.org. This significant initiative, fueled by a generous $2.7 million contribution from AT&T, has awarded the library approximately $14,000 to roll out a series of free classes, drop-in sessions, and personalized tech assistance for residents of St. Mary’s County.
Free Classes to Empower Digital Skills
The St. Mary’s County Library is gearing up to offer an array of free classes at its three branches, covering crucial topics such as Internet Basics, Video Conferencing Basics, Cybersecurity Basics, Email Basics, Computer Basics (Windows 10), and Mobile Device Basics (Android and iOS). To cater to a diverse community, classes in Spanish will also be available at the Lexington Park Library. As an added incentive, participants who complete one or more classes will receive a $10 gift card, while supplies last.
Drop-In Tech Help and Personalized Sessions
In addition to the structured classes, the library is set to host Get Tech Smart: Drop-In Tech Help sessions at all three locations. These sessions are designed to empower residents to feel more confident in using their phones, tablets, or computers, with no registration required and refreshments provided. For those unable to attend the drop-in sessions, individuals can schedule one-on-one tech help with library staff over the phone or through the library’s website.
Supporting Community Growth Through Digital Literacy
Michael Blackwell, St. Mary’s County Library Director, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “People seeking to develop or brush up on their computer skills will find a welcoming environment and informative sessions.” He emphasized the importance of digital literacy skills in today’s world and underscored the library’s commitment to helping residents in St. Mary’s County enhance their digital abilities and comfort. This grant aligns with the PLA’s Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive and Digital Navigator Workshop Incentive programs, which strive to enhance digital skills in communities using resources from DigitalLearn.org.
Get Involved and Learn More
Residents interested in taking advantage of these valuable resources can access a full schedule of classes and drop-in sessions on the library’s website. For those looking for personalized assistance, one-on-one sessions with library staff can be scheduled online or over the phone.
In conclusion, the St. Mary’s County Library’s efforts to boost digital literacy in the community are commendable and undoubtedly beneficial to residents looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital landscape. By providing free classes, drop-in sessions, and one-on-one tech help, the library is empowering individuals to navigate the digital world with confidence and ease.
