Libraries to host free digital literacy workshops

The Carroll and Madison Library System is preparing to host free basic digital literacy training workshops for the community to help close the digital divide. These classes will be taught in English and Spanish and held at the libraries in Berryville, Eureka Springs, Green Forest, Huntsville, Kingston and St. Paul.

Using resources from Digitallearn. org, workshops will help members build skills and confidence using technology. Topics include but are not limited to internet use, video conferencing, cybersecurity and mobile device basics for your phone or tablet. To help determine which classes will be offered, community members can fill out a four-question survey at the closest library or by going online to: www.camals.org/freeclass According to the U.S. Department of Education, about 16 percent of U.S. adults are not digitally literate. In addition, about 40 percent of disconnected students face significant adoption barriers including insufficient digital literacy skills, according to a report from Common Sense Media.

Advancing these skills is crucial to helping bridge the digital divide. It’s important that students and their families not only have access to the internet and computers, but also have the tools needed to use that technology effectively, safely and responsibly.

Public libraries play a vital role in providing access to the internet, devices, and digital content, and knowledgeable staff to all — particularly to people of color and youth in low-income households. In 2019, nearly 54 million Americans accessed the internet in public places, and public libraries alone hosted nearly 224 million public internet use sessions.