In this week’s Princh Library Blog, Nina Grant covers why digital literacy is important, the variety of ways in which librarians are supporting digital literacy across generations, and gives examples of well-known libraries around the globe with dedicated digital literacy programs. Enjoy!

In this tech age, digital literacy is our modern-day second language—an essential dialect we’re all learning to speak. And when you’re digitally literate, you get to grasp the tools and tech that shape our world. It boils down to knowing how to search, sift, and create in a space that’s as fluid as the air we breathe. Just like mastering a new language, digital savvy opens up a universe of opportunities, connects us with others, and lets our voices be heard. Without this skill, it’s easy to feel lost in the noise. The good news is, this shift makes librarians crucial players in boosting digital literacy.

Digital Skills Across Generations

Digital fluency isn’t just for the younger crowd; it’s something that benefits everyone. For kids, being tech-smart is like learning a second language—it’s vital for school and job prospects. Adults in their middle years may find they need to frequently learn new skills to stay competitive in the job market, while older adults often face hurdles as services go digital—from healthcare to banking.

Libraries as Community Learning Hubs

Librarians are at the heart of this movement, equipped with the know-how and tools to teach digital skills. They understand the challenges that come with technology and are ready to tackle these hurdles head-on. In a world filled with misinformation, librarians help patrons find credible sources – which is what turns libraries into essential support centers, where people not only access technology, but also learn to use it skillfully. Whether it’s helping someone learn basic internet skills or jumping into advanced software, librarians provide hands-on training and nurture a trusting environment that encourages questions and exploration. In this way, libraries champion not just access to tech, but also empowerment through education—proving that knowledge is indeed power in the digital age.

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Below are a few notable libraries with dedicated digital literacy programs:

New York Public Library (NYPL) – USA – The NYPL offers a TechConnect program, which provides free computer classes and workshops across its branches. It covers basic computer skills, internet use, digital privacy, and advanced courses like coding and digital design.

Toronto Public Library (TPL) – Canada – The TPL runs the Digital Innovation Hubs program, with free access to technology and training, including 3D printing, software development, digital media production, and basic digital skills workshops.

British Library – United Kingdom – The British Library offers various digital literacy programs, including “Digital Scholarship Training” for researchers and “Business & IP Centre” programs that help entrepreneurs and small businesses enhance their digital skills.

National Library of Australia – This library provides programs like eResources training, workshops on digital tools, and tutorials on using digital collections and archives for research.

Singapore National Library Board (NLB) – Singapore – NLB offers the Libraries Go Digital initiative, which provides courses and workshops on digital literacy, coding, and technology for both young and senior citizens.

Boston Public Library (BPL) – USA – BPL runs several digital literacy programs, including Tech Goes Home, a program aimed at providing digital skills training, low-cost devices, and affordable internet access to Boston residents.

Vancouver Public Library (VPL) – Canada – The VPL offers a Digital Essentials program, providing workshops on basic digital skills, privacy and security, social media, and multimedia production.

Seattle Public Library (SPL) – USA – SPL provides digital literacy training through programs like “The Learning Lab”, and offers courses in basic computer skills, internet safety, and coding for adults and youth.

Berlin State Library (Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin) – Germany – This library offers digital literacy programs focusing on research skills, digital tools, and workshops on navigating digital databases and resources effectively.

Royal Danish Library – Denmark – This library has workshops on digital skills, research tools, and online resource management as part of its efforts to enhance digital literacy among students and researchers.

Librarians Upskilling for the Future

For librarians to keep being effective, they too need to keep learning. The tech landscape is constantly changing, and librarians must stay updated to support their communities fully. Committing to ongoing learning is crucial because it directly impacts how well they can serve the public. When librarians boost their own skills, they become even more valuable to their communities, ready to teach and guide others.

Helping Local Businesses Thrive

The benefits of digital literacy don’t stop at individuals and libraries; they spill over into local businesses, too. Entrepreneurs can tap into this knowledge to train their employees and create a culture of continuous learning. When businesses offer workshops and hands-on sessions, they can boost their teams’ digital skills, which means that at some point, everyone will become comfortable using new technologies.  One of the biggest benefits of it all however, is that with a more digitally fluent workforce, businesses become innovative and ready to tackle the challenges of today’s world. Investing in employee upskilling keeps people engaged and positions companies as industry leaders.

In the bigger picture, supporting digital literacy is a community effort that unites generations, fosters resilience, and drives economic growth—and this is how everyone gets a place at the digital table.

We will be back with another interesting article from the library world soon!

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