The Sandhill Regional Library System (SRLS), comprised of Anson, Hoke, Moore, Montgomery, and Richmond counties, aims to use funds received from the Digital Champions Grant to help close the digital divide. SRLS hopes to equip its patrons with essential digital literacy skills and resources.
The first step of the plan is to enhance the public technology infrastructure. Since 2000, SRLS has relied on aging infrastructure. The grant will fund new desktop computers equipped with essential software in each library’s computer lab. They will also introduce mobile computer labs at the five main libraries, allowing them to bring technology directly to communities and foster digital engagement and learning.
Secondly, SRLS plans to increase digital connectivity in the homes of library users by purchasing 450 additional hotspots. Grant funds will guarantee that this service can continue for at least two more years. This grant will fund both the new and existing hotspots available throughout the region.
Thirdly, SRLS will expand digital literacy education by bringing classes into the community. Through the Digital Navigator Program, dedicated personnel will provide personalized digital literacy training. They will assist patrons in navigating internet services, mastering device usage, and learning and improving digital skills. The digital navigator and assistant will offer four tiers of digital literacy classes: beginner’s, basic, intermediate, and advanced. They hope to offer opportunities for people of all skill and ability levels.
These efforts are a direct response to community feedback, which has underscored the critical need for internet access and lifelong learning opportunities. SRLS is deeply committed to meeting these needs, bringing new opportunities for patrons throughout the region to explore and benefit from increased access to technology, and providing knowledgeable staff to teach and assist patrons in meeting their educational, employment, or personal goals. Their proactive approach through the Digital Champions Grant not only addresses immediate technology gaps, but also builds sustainable pathways for future community resilience and growth.
Implementation will be overseen by regional staff and supported by dedicated local staff. This cooperation will ensure the seamless integration of new technologies and comprehensive training for staff. It will also guarantee equitable access to new technology throughout the region. The SRLS team hopes that the opportunities that this grant provides will remove barriers and empower the citizens of all five counties within our region to leverage technology for personal and professional growth.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative programming, SRLS is preparing to help bridge the digital divide and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the tools and skills necessary to thrive in the digital age. The Digital Champions Grant is a significant first step for the Sandhill Regional Library System in fulfilling its mission statement of “Building community by connecting people to each other, to learning and discovery, and to resources and spaces that help them thrive.”
For more information about library services, call or visit one of the 15 branches or three bookmobiles or visit www.srls.info.
Contributed and written by Jennifer Hatcher, Sandhill Regional Director of Libraries.