Digital inequity is a social challenge that requires systemic solutions that address individual needs, especially in areas of poverty and low levels of education. Technology is constantly changing, and the library has established innovative approaches to offering individualized digital inclusion programming. The library has implemented new ideas to address the challenge and has been a leader in creating digital spaces to address the unique needs of underrepresented communities.

We provide digital inclusion training in SLCPL staff meetings, workshops with Utah Library Association and produce webinars in partnership with the Utah State Library to serve libraries statewide. We collaborate with established organizations to share resources and increase the impact of our outreach to Salt Lake City’s diverse communities through digital literacy education classes. Classes are available in English and Spanish, and volunteers provide one-on-one tech assistance in many languages. We created permanent digital inclusion librarian position.

We provided digital inclusion education to 390 library staff. Reduced educational digital inequities by partnering with adult online high school program; helped 28 students, leading to five graduations. We partnered with 12 community organizations to provide 112 computer classes and 15 events, reaching 692 individuals. Tech League Volunteer program; 30 volunteers speaking 12 languages provided one-on-one tech assistance to 1,050 patrons. We developed and implemented pilot program to circulate 40 Chromebooks and Hotspots to Library patrons.