In today’s world, almost everything is on the internet: job applications, insurance, appointments, etc. Many people today still do not have the access or skills to be use the internet. Digital Navigators provide guidance and support to those who lack digital skills to help them accomplish their goals online. They are trusted guides who will assist their community in internet adoption and the use of computing devices. These services may include assistance with affordable internet access, device acquisition, technical skills, and application support. Digital Navigators provide general support or even provide specialized support for certain topics like health care. In today’s world, almost everything is on the internet: job applications, insurance, appointments, etc. Digital Navigators provide guidance and support to those who are technologically impaired. It is important to recognize that digital literacy is a privilege, and not everyone has it even though society has shifted to the digital world, and it is something that isn’t going to change.
Since Spring of this year, Albany Public Library has offered one-on-one support with digital navigators. Digital Navigators may be available for walk-in support, but the best way to get help from a Digital Navigator is to make a 30 minute appointment
Next year, APL will be adding even more digital navigators! The program next year will be a paid internship for undergraduate students, paid for by FFAPL and the Carl E. Touhey Foundation. Visit the APL Employment Page for more information.
Where else can you find Digital Navigators?
The role of Digital Navigators isn’t going away anytime soon. Libraries, hospitals, social service agencies, and even banks and retail businesses have a role for Digital Navigators. If you think your organization could use digital navigators, sign up for NDIA’s “Digital Navigator Workshop” to learn how to put a program in place in your community.
NDIA Digital Navigator Workshop
Thursday, October 5th at 2:00p.m.
Register if you are interested in becoming a Digital Navigator, or Digital Navigator Program Manager.
And, if you would just like to learn more about Digital Navigators, watch NDIA’s “Digital Navigator 101”
