Members of public invited to pursue digital literacy training at Sarasota County public libraries

County receives Public Library Association assistance

Sarasota County’s Libraries and Historical Resources Department is one of two Florida library systems that has received the Public Library Association Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T, “which provides assistance to conduct digital literacy training in their communities and help close the digital divide,” county staff has announced.

“Sarasota County libraries are using the funds to enhance the Tech Navigator service, which provides patrons with direct, one-on-one sessions with library staff to learn more about using online resources, common software, and devices such as tablets and e-readers,” a news release explains.

“Our skilled staff will teach you how to use technology, applications, library resources, and more,” said Libraries and Historical Resources Director Renee Di Pilato in the release. “So much of our work, learning, and social connections are dependent on these resources and our team is here to ensure our patrons can be successful in this evolving world of technology,” she noted in the release.

The department’s digital services supervisor, Heather Gorman, added in the release that, because technology can be overwhelming, the Tech Navigator service is a means of easing apprehension.

“The service empowers our community with the skills they need to navigate their jobs, their homes, and their lifetime learning,” Gorman said in the release.

Tech Navigator assistance is available over the phone, online or in person with a 30-minute appointment, the release points out. “Many questions can be answered without an appointment, as well,” it points out.

For more information, or to request an appointment, call 311 or visit scgov.net.