MENOMINEE — The Menominee County Library has been awarded two grants to help fund digital literacy workshops for the public. The Public Library Association (PLA) Digital Literacy Incentive, funded by AT&T, provides support to libraries of all sizes to conduct digital literacy training in their communities and help close the digital divide. Menominee County’s proposal. “Basics to Browsing Digital Literacy for ALL” was one of the 11 digital inclusion grants awarded by the Library of Michigan for fiscal year 2022/23.

Library Director Winnicki explains “Everyone knows that the internet is full of information and is now the go-to path for access to basic services, but not everyone has the skills needed to effectively use what is available. This initiative will offer group classes and one-on-one device/advice help, both at the library and in various locations in Menominee County.” Menominee County Library encourages visitors; branches are located in Stephenson and Hermansville and the public is always welcome wherever the Bookmobile stops.

PLA President Maria McCauley said “A 2020 PLA survey found that about 88% of public libraries provide some form of digital literacy support, but only 42% offer formal classes. Staffing and funding were the top barriers to providing technology training. AT&T’s investment with PLA and public libraries nationwide will boost access to digital literacy skills for the most vulnerable in our communities.”