The digital navigator model was created during the pandemic to respond to the desperate need, particularly in low-income and BIPOC communities, to close the digital divide. Cities across the country, including Denver, are now providing digital caseworkers to their community who connect people to free and low-cost internet and devices, as well as providing repeated one-on-one help sessions to build basic digital literacy skills. Many of these digital navigator programs are based in libraries: Denver Public Library will share their experience thus far with digital navigators located in both branches and bookmobiles, and share resources for those interested in starting their own digital navigator program.
Learning Outcomes- Attendees will gain an understanding of the digital navigator model, how it differs from traditional library technology help, and how it could operate at their library.
- Attendees will leave with local and national resources they can use to start their own digital navigator program, including information about possible funding sources.
- Attendees will be able to bring resources for free and low-cost internet and devices back to their community, even if they do not start a digital navigator program.
