The Being Digital program is aimed at helping people become tech-literate. Photo: Ivan Morenosl.
A free program that helps adults build confidence online is set to be expanded across South Australian public libraries, giving more people in the regions a chance to gain vital skills in the digital space.
The Being Digital program is delivered through a partnership between Libraries SA, Telstra and the Libraries Board of South Australia to provide face-to-face and online sessions to support participants with technology.
The goal is to help people become more confident and independent online so they can use the internet safely.
Basic digital skills in the program include video calling, social media privacy, setting up email, shopping online, scam awareness and a basic introduction to AI.
The program is set to expand to the regions after it secured a $250,000 Adult Community Education (ACE) grant, provided under the $14 million Foundation Skills initiative, jointly funded by the Commonwealth and state governments.
This additional support unlocks up to 3456 ACE places in Coorong, the South East, the Eyre Peninsula and the Upper Spencer Gulf.
A digital outreach officer will be recruited to support the program’s expansion and help coordinate libraries.
More than 7000 sessions have been provided by the Being Digital program over the past 12 months. Nearly 14,000 people across 32 libraries in regional and remote areas have benefited from this education.
The program responds to the increase in services being digital by default, which has a disproportionate effect on residents in rural communities as well as older people and those on low incomes.
Being Digital uses resources such as Google’s Super Searchers, the Australian Government’s Be Connected initiative and learning materials from the eSafety Commissioner.
More information can be found online or by visiting your local library.
