Digital Literacy

National survey finds libraries play expanded role in digital equity, bridging gaps in access to technology

CHICAGO – As the nation celebrates Library Card Sign-up Month this September, a new report from the Public Library Association (PLA) details how libraries are further extending their technology services and resources in the face of pandemic limitations. The 2020 Public Library Technology Survey report provides the most current and complete picture of how libraries serve as digital equity hubs.

PLA launches Public Libraries: Partners in Workforce Development webinar series

CHICAGO — As the nation begins recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people are seeking opportunities to build skills, find and improve job prospects, and prepare for in-demand careers. Public libraries are stepping up to meet these needs with expanded services and strengthened workforce collaborations. The Public Library Association (PLA) will showcase this work in the Public Libraries: Partners in Workforce Development free webinar series starting August 19, 2021.

Virtual, augmented, and mixed reality programs for libraries

CHICAGO — Bestselling tech maven and editor Ellyssa Kroski is back with “32 Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality Programs for Libraries,” published by ALA Editions, a timely, all-in-one guide to planning, organizing, and running virtual events. Ranging from simple gaming activities utilizing VR headsets to augmented reality tours, exhibits, immersive experiences, and STEM educational programs, these ideas include something for every size and type of academic, public, and school library.

PLA, AT&T team up to bring digital literacy training to families

CHICAGO – The Public Library Association (PLA), a division of the American Library Association, and AT&T have announced a collaboration to improve digital literacy and promote broadband adoption among families and communities, particularly those who are newly connected to the internet and navigating home schooling, employment and other activities made challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLA, public libraries and Microsoft Corp. extend upskilling efforts for in-demand jobs

CHICAGO – The Public Library Association (PLA), supported by Microsoft Corp., is promoting tools to help job seekers in high-growth careers. PLA’s Skilling for Employment Post COVID-19 initiative connects public libraries and their communities nationwide to specialized online training and certifications, and today adds new targeted programs in Cleveland, El Paso, Memphis, and New York City.

Visual literacy as a tool for learning

CHICAGO — The burgeoning field of visual literacy can be universally understood across a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, regardless of traditional literacy levels. A key tool for navigating digital devices, there is often an antipathy surrounding visual literacy borne out of stigma and at times, intimidation.

Last Chance to Register: Developing the Best Survey Tips from Consultations Feb. 9 Core Webinar

Join us on Tuesday, February 9, at 1 pm CT for our upcoming webinar, "Developing the Best Survey Tips from Consultations." This webinar will provide the necessary tools to successfully assess the needs of your library patrons. 

 

Surveys are popular assessment tools to understand users' needs and perceptions because they are easy and quick to use. In spite of the convenience and popularity, it is hard to have a well-designed survey.

Last Chance to Register for the January 18 Fundamentals of Digital Library Projects Course from Core

The Fundamentals of Digital Library Projects course introduces students to the breadth of considerations, standards and skills needed to successfully launch and manage a digital library program. It provides an opportunity for hands-on activities to develop critical thinking and decision-making skills within the context of a digital library.

Upon completion of this six-week course, attendees will:

Understand and Improve Library Broadband Challenges in this Core Webinar on April 6, 2021

Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, and Futures, will present the webinar, "Understand and Improve Library Broadband Challenges."
Tuesday, April 6, 2021, from 1:00 -2:00 pm, Central Time. 


Rural and tribal libraries across the US helped create the Towards Gigabit Libraries toolkit, a free, self-service guide for rural and tribal libraries to understand and improve their