Program supported by California State Library,
Southern California Library Cooperative and Local Libraries
PASADENA, Calif., Dec. 8, 2022
/PRNewswire/ -- Get Connected, California! California State Library and
Southern California Library Cooperative (SCLC) have partnered with
local libraries to launch Connected California, a free program
aimed at bridging the digital divide. The program offers one-on-one
help by phone so community members can find low-cost internet
service and devices, learn basic computer skills, and find and use
online resources for career development, to apply for a job, and
more.
How does it work? Californians can contact a "Digital Navigator"
to make an appointment by phone, email, text or through an online
form. A kind and skilled expert will respond within 24 hours of the
individual reaching out Monday through Friday. The Navigator will
work with the community member one-on-one by phone to discuss how
best to help. Navigators are available to help in English and
Spanish.
"We're committed to getting more people online and helping them
build the digital skills they and their families need to succeed
and thrive," said Greg Lucas, State
Librarian. "As more and more services move online, local libraries
are here to support Californians by helping even more people find
and apply for low or no-cost internet and devices as well as access
the life-changing resources available online for free through local
libraries."
The free program is open to all California residents. Appointments may be made
by phone at 1-800-790-5319, by texting 626-873-8396, by emailing
help@connectedca.libanswers.com and through the online form at
www.connectedca.org.
Connected California is
supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and
Library Services under the provisions of the American Rescue Plan
Act, administered in California by
the State Librarian.
The Digital Divide During and After COVID-19
According
to the Public Policy Institute of California, the COVID-19 pandemic has
spotlighted the importance of universal digital access. The gaps in
reliable access to the internet and digital devices that have
contributed to inequities became more evident during the pandemic.
Over the past two years, educators and policy makers have worked to
address two key barriers to access: affordability and lack of
infrastructure. Connected California will actively engage in bridging
the digital divide in our state for people of all ages.
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SOURCE Southern California Library Cooperative