Summary: Digital Literacy and Texas Libraries Association Annual Conference April 21, 2023

 

Texas libraries are essential in addressing digital distress among Texans.

A yearlong research study on digital literacy in Texas public libraries shows significant work in supporting digital literacy training but also identifies unmet needs.

Libraries need more trainers, classes, digital literacy materials in other languages, and space for training.

Collaboration with community partners, particularly for lower-income and underserved communities, is emphasized.

Effective approaches to teaching digital literacy skills include one-on-one sessions, tailored content, adapting training, repeating classes, and combining ESL and computer literacy classes.

Texas libraries are performing well compared to national averages in providing digital literacy assistance.

The presentation aims to develop case profiles and studies to help exas librarians improve their digital literacy services.

Digital literacy is essential in Texas public libraries, particularly in addressing digital distress among Texans. Texas libraries play a unique and powerful role in providing digital literacy assistance. This presentation discusses the results of a year-long research study on the state of digital literacy in Texas public libraries. The study highlights the significant work of Texas libraries in supporting digital literacy training but also identifies unmet needs. The intention is to use these findings to guide the development of programs at both the local and state levels.

The talk introduces the panelists for a discussion on how libraries can strengthen partnerships to advance digital literacy skills in their communities. For more detailed information, a document titled "Texas Public Library Serving Communities to Enhance Digital Literacy" is available. The presentation discusses the goals of the research study, including assessing current practices, identifying barriers, and exploring collaborations.

The research involved interviews with librarians and surveys of library directors and branch managers from various libraries in Texas. Some findings include the prevalence of one-on-one digital literacy assistance, with older adults being the most frequent patrons seeking help. The report also highlights the pressing needs of libraries, including more trainers, classes, digital literacy materials in other languages, and space for training. Collaboration with community partners, particularly for lower-income and underserved communities, is emphasized.

Effective approaches to teaching digital literacy skills include one-on-one sessions, tailored content, adapting training, repeating classes, and combining ESL and computer literacy classes. Challenges include low attendance, staffing issues, lack of space, and limited community support. Texas libraries are performing well compared to national averages in providing digital literacy assistance. Branch libraries offer more training and services than main libraries.