Tailored Tech Training Bridging the Digital Divide
Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
To support its strategic goal of reducing the digital divide, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library (THPL) launched a targeted approach to digital literacy. Recognizing that one size does not fit all, THPL designed high-quality, personalized workshops tailored to the needs of older adults and Spanish speakers. These groups often face unique barriers to digital access, and the program ensured training met learners where they were—both in skill and in language.
With support from a Public Library Association incentive program, the workshops began at three branch locations. Demand and feedback quickly led THPL to expand the program system-wide. This initiative not only provided critical digital skills but also fostered confidence and independence in communities often left behind in the digital shift. By offering customized support, THPL is helping bridge the digital divide for all.
Challenge/Opportunity
Age and language remain two of the main barriers to digital literacy. Older adults face challenges with technology due to limited exposure or training, while Spanish speakers may struggle to utilize technology effectively and safely. Both groups are especially vulnerable when many essential services like employment or healthcare have moved online. With more older adults re-entering the workforce due to rising costs, and language barriers limiting job access, digital skills are more critical than ever. THPL recognized the gap in service and the lack of specialized programming tailored to the needs of seniors and Spanish speakers. Approximately 30% of Hillsborough County is 55 years old or older and 21% are Spanish speakers. This project focused on providing free, personalized digital literacy workshops to address real-world issues like device navigation and cyber security. By targeting these underserved populations, THPL is bridging the digital divide and expanding access to opportunity
Key Elements of Innovation
THPL’s digital literacy workshop topics were selected to meet the specific needs of older adults and Spanish speakers—two groups that often request one-on-one tech help from staff. The workshops focused on three key topics from DigitalLearn: Cybersecurity, Mobile Device Basics (Android), and Mobile Device Basics (iOS). These subjects were selected based on frequent customer challenges. THPL utilized the incentive funds to offer a free Chromebook to one participant at each workshop, ensuring active participation.
Device proficiency is a foundational step in building digital literacy, and many participants had little or no prior experience. Cybersecurity was especially relevant for those more vulnerable to online scams, while mobile device training helped customers gain confidence with everyday tasks. The personalized, supportive format ensured participants could build critical skills at their own pace, empowering them to safely and confidently engage in the digital world.
Achieved Outcomes
The pilot phase of THPL’s digital literacy initiative delivered 15 workshops across 3 branches, reaching 110 learners. Participants responded enthusiastically, with many requesting follow-up sessions and more advanced content. The small class sizes, hands-on format, and supportive environment fostered active discussion and skill-building. The Cybersecurity Basics workshop was especially well-received, with strong interest in deeper, more advanced sessions.
Based on this demand, THPL has expanded the program system-wide and is developing a follow-up series that builds on the original three topics, adding additional modules from DigitalLearn. Feedback made it clear: the community values this kind of personalized, practical learning. Comments included:
- “Really liked the hands-on class.”
- “I’m more comfortable using my phone!”
- “Loved the practice packet—we applied what we learned.”
- “Would love an intermediate version of this cybersecurity class!”
- “Very informative.”
