September 7, 2022, Hastings, MI — Hastings Public Library is honored to be one of only 160 public libraries nationwide awarded funding by the Public Library Association (PLA) to conduct digital literacy workshops using Digitallearn.org resources. The PLA Digital Literacy Workshop Incentive, supported by AT&T, provides support to libraries of all sizes to conduct digital literacy training in their communities and help close the digital divide.

The Library will hold six monthly classes on a range of topics from computer and internet basics, to cybersecurity, tablets and more. Classes are open to anyone and will be held the first Wednesday of each month starting Wednesday October 5, 2022. New laptops received from another grant earlier in 2022 will be available to use, or patrons can bring their own. For more information, watch the Library’s website, call (269) 945-4263 or stop in. Registration will be required.

Peggy Hemerling, the Library Director, is very happy to launch these new trainings. “We are grateful for this grant and excited to offer these classes to our community.”

“The mission of libraries has always been about equitable access to information, literacy, learning, and culture. In the age of COVID-19, this mission has only become vital as libraries have played a critical role in keeping communities connected and online," said PLA President Maria McCauley. "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.”

About Hastings Public Library

Originally started as the Women’s Club Reading Room in 1896, the Hastings Public Library has been serving the community ever since. From its current location downtown next to City Hall, it offers over 45,000 books, audiobooks, movies and more for checkout, plus over 1.2 million items are available through the digital collection. Programs are offered year-round ranging from story time  for toddlers to travel adventures for adults, free public computers & 24/7 WiFi, and a unique Library of Things. 

About the Public Library Association

The Public Library Association (PLA) is the largest association dedicated to supporting the unique and evolving needs of public library professionals. Founded in 1944, PLA serves nearly 9,000 members in public libraries large and small in communities across the United States and Canada, with a growing presence around the world. PLA strives to help its members shape the essential institution of public libraries by serving as an indispensable ally for public library leaders. For more information about PLA, contact the PLA office at 1 (800) 545-2433, ext. 5PLA, or pla@ala.org.   

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T  

We’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities. and improving lives. As part of our companywide $2 billion commitment from 2021–2023 to address the digital divide, we launched AT&T Connected Learning to invest in connectivity and technology, digital literacy, and education solutions. We aim to help today’s learners succeed inside and outside of the classroom. Since 2008, we’ve committed more than $600 million to programs that help millions of students across all 50 states and around the world, particularly those in underserved communities.