PLA awards $1.27 million to more than 200 Public Libraries for digital literacy and ACP workshops

National initiative part of expanded support from AT&T to help families build online skills and learn about the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

CHICAGO —Powered by a contribution from AT&T, the Public Library Association (PLA) has selected more than 200 public libraries across 45 states to host digital literacy and ACP workshops. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentives, supported by AT&T support public libraries in their work improving digital skills and promoting broadband adoption among families and communities. The workshops leverage the online digital literacy courses, created by PLA in collaboration with AT&T, that are freely available to anyone through DigitalLearn.org and AT&T ScreenReady. DigitalLearn.org online courses and training materials were developed with and for library staff and their patrons.

This second cohort is part of an expanded national initiative and collaboration between PLA and AT&T. In 2022, 160 libraries were selected to be part of the PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T.  The initial group of libraries held more than 1,500 workshops which helped over 8,000 learners build skills and confidence using technology. This new cohort will increase the number of learners libraries can continue to reach.

PLA President Maria McCauley said, “Public libraries continuously play a vital role in providing digital literacy tools and information to their communities. The expansion of this powerful collaboration with AT&T for the second year will ensure that even more families and communities can benefit from programs and resources that increase digital access and equity.”

Workshops, available in English and Spanish, will be offered on 8 digital literacy topics, as well as how to apply and use the ACP benefit. Courses cover basic technology skills which include topics such as internet use, video conferencing, cybersecurity, and mobile device basics and ACP basics.

“DigitalLearn aligns perfectly with our library’s mission of providing equitable access to digital literacy, technology, and information. DigitalLearn has played a critical role in our library by providing digital support and literacy. Our library will continue to use this resource in a variety of ways." said Miranda Robbins, New Braunfels Public Library, New Braunfels, TX, 2022 cohort participant.

“Collaboration is a crucial part of helping to close the digital divide,” said Charlene Lake, chief sustainability officer, senior vice president, AT&T corporate responsibility. “Our work with libraries is making a difference as we meet people in their local neighborhoods and bring them digital literacy tools and resources so they can gain the skills needed to participate in our connected world.”

Workshops funded by the PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive will be conducted online and/or in person at participating libraries across the United States in 2023. Workshops will begin in August and will be offered through December 2023. Patrons should check with your local libraries to learn about upcoming workshops in the community.

Selected Libraries (* indicates participation in both incentive programs)

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 company wide $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.