Libraries help with digital literacy

The importance of digital equity and inclusion cannot be overstated in this bold new world of ours. We live in a rapidly changing era, in which the digital realm intertwines with our daily lives, sometimes as a slow creep, other times in dramatic and life-changing ways.

As we motor towards the next progress, next technological leap, next impossible horizon, there is always potential for people to be left behind. This is the reality of digital exclusion, and it has a negative impact on the society we live in.

As the digital inclusion librarian, the pursuit of digital equity and resilience in our community is one of my passions and drivers. Libraries

have always been at the forefront of this area, through the programming and initiatives we offer that bolster digital literacy. In a world where the internet is both a blessing and a potential curse, digital literacy becomes the great equaliser.

Here at Libraries Horowhenua, we offer several initiatives including a year-round digital learning programme. This is a programme of free classes and workshops that cover a plethora of topics and give our patrons the opportunity to upskill, learn and grow.

One of our most popular and pertinent classes is our ‘Staying Safe Online’ workshop, designed to equip you with the core skills you need to be scam savvy, so you won’t be caught out.

Scams, like chameleons, adapt and evolve, becoming increasingly sophisticated and elusive. From phishing emails tempting you with imaginary riches to cunning imitations of trusted websites, the arsenal of online scams is expanding. The rising tide of cyber threats demands a vigilant community armed with knowledge. This is precisely where online safety classes emerge as our digital superheroes.

Our digital learning programme runs in line with the school terms, and each term we have the Staying Safe Online workshop on offer. Other courses on offer include everything from using our eLibrary, to Intro to AI, to the Better Digital Futures pathways. Keep an eye out next term for our new course exploring the basics of family research.

Want to know more, or to enrol? You can pick up the digital learning booklet from one of our locations, check out our website, or keep an eye on the What’s On section of the Library Notes in the paper. Alternatively you can find our classes on www.steppingup.nz or request more information by emailing info@horowhenua.govt.nz, or by coming on in and asking for me! All our digital learning classes are free and open to anyone.

So remember, your local library is at the ready, eager to equip you with the tools needed to navigate this new digital world. Let’s embrace the knowledge offered, and learn together, fortifying ourselves against

the rising tide of cyber threats. Together, we can build a safer, more

resilient digital future. Happy learning!