Alpha Park Public Library Selected for Digital Literacy Grant

Alpha Park Public Library is among over 160 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association (PLA) to conduct digital literacy workshops using Digitallearn.org resources. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T, provides support to libraries of all sizes to conduct digital literacy training in their communities and help close the digital divide.

Alpha Park Public Library intends to hold a series of digital literacy workshops with the funding, which is to be used to purchase updated laptop computers for patron use. One of the workshops will take place on October 5, and cover the topic of cyber security for older patrons. The library also intends to offer drop-in courses on tablets. Watch our social media pages, our website, and look for signage in the library on more information soon!

"Our library strives to provide thorough, equitable access to information on all platforms," said Director Amy Harris, "Through this grant we are able to expand our offerings of digital literacy trainings and classes to our patrons."

"The mission of libraries has always been about equitable access to information, literacy, learning, and culture. In the age of COVID-19, this mission has only become vital as libraries have played a critical role in keeping communities connected and online," said PLA President Maria McCauley. "A 2020 PLA survey found that about 88% of public libraries provide some form of digital literacy support, but only 42% offer formal classes. Staffing and funding were the top barriers to providing technology training. AT&T's investment with PLA and public libraries nationwide will boost access to digital literacy skills for the most vulnerable in our communities."

About Alpha Park Public Library
The Alpha Park Public Library's mission is to provide progressive and relevant materials and services for the ever-changing, lifelong informational, educational, social, and recreational needs of our various communities. The library is committed to providing excellent customer service in a welcoming environment, and is dedicated to developing partnerships and a sense of community.

About the Public Library Association
The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T 
We're committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities. and improving lives. As part of our companywide $2 billion commitment from 2021–2023 to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions. We aim to help today's learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008, we've committed more than $600 million to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.

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