Funding by PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T
From the Hornell Public Library,
The Hornell Public Library is among 215 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association (PLA) this year to conduct digital literacy workshops using new Digitallearn.org resources. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T, provides support to libraries of all sizes to conduct workshops using DigitalLearn training materials on up to 8 topics designed to help patrons build skills and confidence using technology.
The funding will allow the library to purchase Apple and Samsung tablets to be used during the workshops, pay for training fees, and purchase incentives and refreshments for the different workshops. Topics to be covered include internet, email, cybersecurity, and mobile device basics for both Android and iOS users. The library is collaborating with Ed Flaitz of Ed’s Computer Technologies who will run the workshops with the help of library staff.
PLA collaborated with AT&T to develop the digital literacy and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) courses, which are freely available in English and Spanish through AT&T ScreenReady and PLA’s DigitalLearn.org. Hornell Public Library will help patrons use these resources in upcoming workshops that will be conducted at the library starting November 2023 through January 2024.
The first workshop, Internet Basics, will be held November 15th at 5:00 PM and the second workshop, Cybersecurity Basics for Seniors, will be held November 29th at 5:00 PM. Call the library today to register at 607-324-1210! Participants will be entered into a free drawing for a $25 VISA Gift Card for each workshop. Be sure to follow the Hornell Public Library on Facebook and check their website for the latest updates.
PLA Past President Maria McCauley remarked, “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”.
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 companywide $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.
The Hornell Public Library is located at 64 Genesee Street, Hornell, NY. The library’s open hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Wednesday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Friday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM, and Saturday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
