In a timely announcement for Library Lovers Day, Minister for Local Government, Hon Melissa Horne MP, announced the Victorian government is providing $2 million in funding to public libraries for a Digital Literacy for Seniors Program in 2023.
‘Local libraries are a trusted source of information in the community – what better place for our senior citizens to learn great new skills for the digital age,’ Minister Horne said. ‘This is about growing practical knowledge, building confidence and providing the opportunity for people to expand their social networks.’
Training programs may include one-to-one or small group sessions on both hardware and software topics such as how to manage mobile phones, data and apps, understanding the internet, and how to get the most out of laptops and tablets.
The program also funds the hiring and training of staff to deliver programs, upgrade library digital devices like laptops and iPads, and minor changes to library facilities to better facilitate programs.
According to the Australian Digital Inclusion Index, older people are most likely to be excluded from a range of digital activities. Victorians over the age of 50 now make up more than 35 per cent of public library users, with 17.2 per cent aged over 70. Libraries provide direct access to computers, internet linked devices and free Wi-Fi, as well as hands-on assistance.
The new funding comes about as a result of advocacy by Public Libraries Victoria, which brought to Minister Horne’s attention the significant role played by libraries in providing hands-on assistance to library users, especially seniors, to navigate the online world. Public libraries played a significant role in helping people access their COVID vaccination certificates and digital health records, as well as helping them navigating the increasing number of online government services.
The Minister made the announcement at the beautiful Altona North Library, part of Hobsons Bay Libraries, on 14 February 2023. Joining the Minister (pictured, centre) were Hobsons Bay Deputy Mayor Diana Grima (pictured, right), PLV CEO Angela Savage (pictured, left), Hobsons Bay City Council and library staff, representatives from Local Government Victoria, and a number of seniors who are participating in Hobsons Bay Libraries’ technology classes.
Having access to a program like Digital Literacy for Seniors was life changing for Williamstown’s Wilma Robarts, aged in her 80s. ‘Keeping up with technology is a challenge for everyone, particularly seniors who are retired and aren’t using this technology on a daily basis for work,’ Ms Robarts said. ‘The digital literacy programs offered by Hobsons Bay’s libraries have been a big help in adapting to technologies that are now in everyday use, but also rapidly changing.’
Learning how to use her iPhone effectively in a dedicated program offered by Altona North Library has helped Wilma get the most out of her smart phone and feel more independent.