Digital navigation pilots in four public libraries

Abstract

This article is written by Christine Gauvreau, a Consultant with the Connecticut State Library’s Division of Library Development. By supplying pilot project subawards of $100,000 in Institute of Museum and Library Services American Rescue Plan Act funds to four public libraries, the Connecticut State Library facilitated the collection of qualitative data demonstrating the need for and impact of libraries offering digital navigation appointments to residents in need of an internet connection, a laptop, technical skills to operate the computer, and/or digital literacy skills. Libraries learned that three part-time digital navigators for a nine-month period could serve and satisfy hundreds of residents, contribute greatly to enlarging the digital ecosystem in a town, and lay the foundation for sustainable programs.

Keywords:

• Digital inclusion
• digital navigation
• digital literacy
• computer skills

Acknowledgments

The author would like to thank East Hartford Public Library Director Sarah Morgan, Hamden Public Library Director Melissa Canham Clyne, Hartford Public Library Director of Public Services Marie Jarry, past Hartford Public Library Assistant Director of Public Services Julie Styles, past Ferguson Library Information Technology Supervisor Maisam Nouh, and all the digital navigators who contributed the pilot projects.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Christine Gauvreau

Christine Gauvreau is a Consultant with the Connecticut State Library’s Division of Library Development.