Digital Navigators at California’s Public Libraries Help Bridge Broadband Divide

Once considered only a place to borrow books, libraries are emerging as a resource to educate Californians on how to navigate the Internet, providing access to employment and training opportunities, online services like telehealth, and much more. To ensure that library patrons can make the most of these opportunities, libraries also provide in-house digital navigators trained to assist patrons in getting online and acquiring necessary digital skills. However, one in five Californians lack high-speed broadband Internet access, giving them few chances outside of the library to practice these skills. A panel of experienced library and policy experts recently discussed the opportunities and challenges faced by digital navigators in expanding broadband access throughout the state. During the panel, library professionals discussed how, given budget restrictions, most staff members are being trained to serve as digital navigators and guide those seeking help. But with 184 library systems statewide, a wider protocol is lacking for how to approach digital literacy.