How can CPLTAs assist with digital literacy?

CPLTAs, or Community and Public Library Technology Assistants, play a vital role in enhancing digital literacy among library patrons by providing training on the effective use of technology and digital resources. This training is essential because many users may not have the necessary skills to navigate online resources, utilize software applications, or understand how to engage safely and responsibly in the digital environment. By offering structured guidance and practical workshops, CPLTAs empower individuals to gain confidence in using technological tools, which is crucial in an increasingly digital world.

The focus on training ensures that patrons are not just passive consumers of technology but active participants who can seek information, communicate effectively, and utilize digital services to meet their personal, educational, or professional needs. This capacity building fosters greater independence among users and encourages lifelong learning, which aligns with the mission of libraries to enhance community knowledge and accessibility.

While conducting audits of library technology, organizing public forums, and developing online databases are valuable activities, they support digital literacy in more indirect ways compared to the direct training approach. Those activities might enhance the library's technological infrastructure or provide platforms for discussion but do not directly equip individuals with the skills they need to use digital tools effectively.