Digital Equity for Spanish Speakers
Jefferson County Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
JCPL launched its Digital Equity for Spanish Speakers program to help Spanish-speaking patrons learn how to use a computer for basic tasks such as sending/receiving emails, navigate the internet and create online accounts. The program addressed digital equity by to breaking down barriers such as language, transportation and exposure to technology.
Challenge/Opportunity
JCPL recognized a divide between those who have affordable access, skills and support to effectively engage online and those who do not. This project is essential to ensure that all residents, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies. This includes access to internet services and digital training.
JCPL worked with education partners to assess community needs and partnered with Title I schools that have high populations of immigrant Spanish speakers.
Key Elements of Innovation
Community engagement identified specific opportunities to remove barriers for Spanish speakers including access to technology, access to library locations, challenges with scheduling and language comprehension.
In 2022, JCPL launched a six-week course for parents in Spanish. The curriculum covers computer basics using Digital Learn Resources by the Public Library Association (PLA). Importantly, the library provided Chromebooks for participants to take home for the duration of the course.
Achieved Outcomes
JCPL held two full courses of eight people each. There are four schools waiting to enroll parents in 2023.
After the course, students were able to:
• Start a computer, effectively use a mouse and keyboard and access the internet
• Create and manage an email account
• Access jeffcolibrary.org to learn about library offerings
• Create accounts for our digital resources
• Attend video conferences safely
Project Outcome was used to measure impact. Courses averaged 4.7 out of 5 on a Likert scale across all outcomes.
