Charleston Library System Launches Initiative to Boost Digital Literacy and Empower Community

Charleston Library System Takes Big Steps in Digital Literacy

In the vibrant city of Charleston, South Carolina, the local library is taking a big leap forward in helping the community become more tech-savvy. The Charleston County Library System is dedicated to teaching folks how to navigate the digital world—one that’s become a crucial part of our daily lives. From online health consultations to job applications, the internet is now a must-know tool for everyone.

Recognizing the Need for Digital Skills

The library’s initiative comes as part of a broader mission to tackle literacy gaps across the nation. In fact, the Charleston County Public Library was selected, alongside library systems in Chicago and Delaware, to engage in an insightful two-year program funded by a generous $400,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences. This funding, aimed at enhancing adult and family literacy, highlights the increasing importance of having solid internet skills.

Why is this so crucial? Well, a study by the National Center for Education Statistics showed that between 2011 and 2014, about one in five adults faced challenges when it came to completing tasks in English. That’s a staggering 43 million people nationwide struggling with low literacy skills! The Charleston library recognizes that within this group, digital literacy is particularly essential. With about $30,000 earmarked specifically for improving digital skills, they’re all set to lend a helping hand.

The First Year: Assessing Resources

During the first year of this exciting program, the focus will be on looking closely at the existing resources the library offers. Library leaders are eager to identify how they can better deliver support services and reach out to a larger audience in the community.

For anyone looking to polish their tech skills, the library hosts a variety of technology classes. These range from the very basics, like learning how to turn on a computer, all the way up to more advanced topics such as artificial intelligence and popular applications like ChatGPT. Andrew Dombrowski, the Technology Coordinator for the Charleston County Library System, emphasizes that these classes are designed to be both informative and engaging. “Our classes…some of them are very hands-on,” he explains. “We’ll set you up in a classroom with a computer or laptop and we’ll work through a program like on Microsoft Excel.”

Breaking Down Barriers for Job Seekers

One pressing concern for community members is the job application process. According to Dombrowski, “So many jobs require an online application,” which can be a challenging hurdle, especially for those who may not be comfortable with technology. Even if the job itself doesn’t require heavy computer use, the process can still be daunting. This barrier is a key focus for the library, as they hope to ensure everyone has access to the necessary tools and training to apply for jobs confidently.

Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger Support Network

While many branches of the Charleston County Library provide technological support, there are still areas like the Edisto branch where assistance is lacking. The second year of the program plans to address these gaps by bringing in tutors to train library staff. The ultimate goal is to vastly improve support efforts, not just locally, but also in collaboration with libraries in Chicago and Delaware. By creating a robust network of support, they aim to empower individuals through enhanced digital literacy.

Join the Journey Towards Digital Literacy

If you are an adult eager to enhance your technical skills, the Charleston County Library System invites you to check out their classes. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to advance your knowledge, there’s something for everyone. You can discover more about their current offerings on their website. With a mission to bridge the digital divide, the library is truly a treasure trove of resources just waiting to be explored!