Bridging the digital divide is a special focus for libraries, especially now. As the pandemic continues and we find ourselves leaning so heavily on technology in our day-to-day lives, the Aurora Public Library District’s (APLD) Digital Services Department is finding new ways to provide services and materials to its customers.
When the Library developed the latest round of Digital Services programming, staff members wanted to make sure that these programs were relevant to the needs and interests of the Aurora community as a whole, including those who do not visit the Library. Assistant manager of digital services, Elliot Witt, discusses how to achieve this goal. “To accomplish this, we met with staff members from other Library departments to get a sense of what challenges their customers faced and how library technology could help them. Three challenges came up in every conversation we had: a lack of basic computer skills; a feeling of isolation due to COVID-19; and the language barrier faced by new immigrants, refugees, and their families.” Based on this feedback, the Digital Services Department created programs that each fit into one of five categories: Science & Tech Talks, Maker Meetup, Skill Builder, TecnologíaenEspañol, and Computer Basics. “We describe our programming as functional, informative, and fun.” Witt said.
Most programs are in the virtual format and accessible through the Library’s Facebook page or through Zoom. Others may require registration to reserve a limited spot, such as those events centered around technology in the Makerspace at Santori Library. These in-person programs are on pause during the worst of the Omicron surge, but we’re looking forward to making them available again just as soon as we safely can. In the Maker Meetup programs, participants will learn how to design and create something using the technology available within the Makerspace. Science & Tech Talks are presentations to discuss exciting developments in the world of STEM and suitable for the whole family. The Skill Builder and Computer Basics categories focus on developing digital literacy for everyone in the Aurora community. TecnologíaenEspañol focuses on making all four categories available in Spanish. Upcoming programs feature topics such as creating custom presentations with Power Point, exploring hidden features of the iPhone, and make your own Valentine’s Day gifts.
The Library continues to find new ways to get technology in the hands of those who need it most. We are partners with the nonprofit PCs for People which has a mission to deliver affordable PCs and wireless hot spots to people in need. After a successful initial distribution event in December, we are happy to continue the partnership into 2022. In addition, the library continues to offer devices such as Chromebooks and wireless hot spots for checkout with an APLD Library card. Need internet access after hours? The Library recently enabled Wi-Fi, available 24/7, in all of our parking lots in partnership with the city of Aurora government.
As technology continues to evolve, so will the needs of our community. The Library is always here to help in whatever way we can…in-person or virtually. Visit aurorapubliclibrary.org/events for more information on library programming.