Bridging the Digital Divide

for Senior Citizens

A comparative analysis of libraries across the
United States.

Capstone Project by: Alisha Short

 Introduction
This project involves exploring strategies for bridging the digital divide for senior citizens in
twenty-one libraries across the United States. The research includes selecting four libraries
from each of the five regions of the United States (Northeast, Southeast, West, Southwest,
Midwest) and exploring their digital initiatives regarding senior citizens. I also conducted
research on my local library for comparison. This research includes understanding how these
libraries address the digital needs of seniors, outreach to nursing homes and assisted living
facilities, and the implementation of assistive technologies.

The latest demographic data from data.census.gov was analyzed to identify states within
each region with the largest senior population. The four states with the highest senior
population in each region were chosen for further investigation. Libraries within each
chosen state were selected by opting for one of the top choices displayed on the Google
results page.
 Research Questions
• How do libraries across the United States address the digital needs of
senior citizens, and what has proven to be most effective in bridging the
digital divide for this group?

• What methods are employed by libraries to engage senior citizens,

including those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and how
effective are these approaches in promoting digital skills and access to
technology?

• What types of assistive technologies are implemented in libraries to

enhance accessibility for senior citizens, and how do these technologies
contribute to bridging the digital divide for this group?
United States Regions

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/united-states-regions/
 Region: Northeast
• New York – New York Public Library
– https://www.nypl.org/

• Pennsylvania – Mt. Lebanon Public Library

– https://www.mtlebanonlibrary.org/

• New Jersey – Montclair Public Library

– https://montclairlibrary.org/

• Massachusetts – Hingham Public Library

– https://hinghamlibrary.org/
 New York Public Library (New York)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Tailored programs, personalized assistance,
intergenerational support, accessibility services and community outreach. Mission: “The mission of The New York Public Library is to inspire
lifelong learning, advance knowledge, and strengthen our communities.”
• Effectiveness- The personalized approach to teaching technology skills
has increased digital literacy among seniors.
• Successful Programs-One-on-one tech assistance sessions, whether in the
form of beginner tech help from teens or personalized computer sessions,
have been successful in providing targeted support to seniors. These
sessions are offered in-person or over the phone.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning & Learning Express Library
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Services such as online classes, book delivery, and device loans
cater to patron needs. Local branches collaborate with the outreach https://www.nypl.org/locations/schwarzman

department to support visits to nursing homes and older adult centers,

sometimes leading onsite tech classes.
• Successful Program- NYPL’s TechConnect program partners with enliveo
to provide private classes for older adults via a virtual senior center.
Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Available Technologies- JAWS, ZoomText,
SIBL’s Da Vinci video magnifier, “Eye-Pal Solo”
reading machine, talking books & players,
assistive listening devices, and talking books
 Mt. Lebanon Public Library (Pennsylvania)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Provide an extensive range of digital
Mission: “Mt Lebanon Public Library (MLPL) will provide for all patrons an
inclusive, welcoming environment of intellectual enrichment, creativity and
enjoyment, and a forum to exchange ideas by providing top-tier programs,
materials, services, and community support.”

resources, deliver online courses, host computer classes, and provide

“Ask a Librarian services”.
• Effectiveness-Digital resources support accessibility and ‘Technology
Help’ boosts digital skills. Adaptive tech aids patrons with disabilities
and 'Ask a Librarian' offers quick digital support.
• Successful Programs- The Drop-In Technology Help Sessions and
Learning Labs for Computer Classes have effectively supported
patrons in enhancing their digital skills and literacy through
personalized assistance and hands-on learning experiences.
• Digital Resources- Gale Courses Online Learning https://lebomag.com/library-turns-outward-looks-forward/

Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach-The Mt. Lebanon Public Library has implemented successful Assistive Technology Implementation:
outreach programs aimed at extending its services and resources to • Available Technologies- JAWS, ZoomText,
diverse segments of the community. high contrast keyboards, Kurzweil 1000
• Successful Program- Collaborate with local retirement communities, adaptive workstation, Optelec Reader
churches, and adult-focused organizations. The library offers tailored Magnifier, and hand-held magnifiers.
programs and resources directly to these groups. No specific program
 Montclair Public Library (New Jersey)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
Mission: “The mission of the Montclair Public Library is to change lives
• Strategies Implemented-Seniors have access to tailored online tutorials every day through words, ideas and community connections.”
and can borrow technology like Wi-Fi hotspots, Chromebooks, and
Kindles. Digital resources and events are also tailored to their needs.
• Effectiveness- These strategies have proven effective in teaching seniors'
technology skills.
• Successful Programs- The One-on-One sessions have been successful in
providing personalized assistance to seniors. Seniors have found the
online tutorials helpful in learning how to use technologies and digital
resources.
• Digital Resources- Ed2Go
Montclair Library- Main Branch Fullerton
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Home Assisted Service connects with community members
who cannot visit the library, ensuring they still benefit from library Assistive Technology Implementation:
resources. • Available Technologies- CCTV table-top
• Successful Program- "Senior Center in a Box" has emerged as a enlarger, EyeSnap Reader, computers
successful program, providing seniors with curated kits filled with enhanced with JAWS and MAGic software.
engaging activities.
 Hingham Public Library (Massachusetts)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Offer one-on-one help, tech beginner Mission: “To provide materials and services to contribute to and enhance the
classes, monthly tech chat workshops. personal enrichment, enjoyment, and educational endeavors of its patrons.”

• Effectiveness- One-on-one help if effective in addressing issues, the

tech beginner classes are effective for providing structured learning.
• Successful Programs- A session that focused on defining commonly
used computer terms, which gave patrons the vocabulary needed
when asking for tech help. Also, the monthly tech chat is successful,
which is where patrons come to learn about different technology
topics.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- The library offers a home delivery service for residents
unable to visit the library. Volunteers deliver books, DVDs,
audiobooks, magazines and Kindle eReaders. Hingham Public Library

• Successful Program- Sending staff to local elderly living situations to

provide library cards and technology assistance for seniors with Assistive Technology Implementation:
limited mobility. This program allows for one-on-one assistance with • Available Technologies- Large magnifier, an assistive
electronic lending resources and technology support. hearing sound coil, reader pens, an electronic
magnifying lens, and a braille label maker.
 Region: Southeast
• Florida – Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach
– https://www.wpb.org/government/mandel-public-library-of-west-palm-beach

• Georgia –Columbus Public Library (Chattahoochee Valley)

– https://www.cvlga.org/about-us/columbus-public-library

• North Carolina – Chapel Hill Public Library

– https://chapelhillpubliclibrary.org/

• Virginia – Staunton Public Library

– https://www.ci.staunton.va.us/departments/library
 Mandel Public Library of West Palm
Beach (Florida)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
Mission: “Creating inspired lives by connecting people with information and
• Strategies Implemented- Drop-In workshops, one-on-one ideas.”

appointments with a community partner, and basic computer classes.

• Effectiveness- These strategies provide a range of options to cater to
different learning styles and comfort levels. Offering individualized
support is the most effective method.
• Successful Programs- South Florida Tech for Seniors is a local
program that pairs high school students with seniors to help with
devices and applications.
• Digital Resources- Northstar Digital Literacy & GCF Global.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Conducting workshops at senior centers, retirement Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach
communities, and assisted living facilities, while distributing
promotional materials to community centers and senior-focused
organizations. Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Successful Program- In the past, successful outreach involved • Available Technologies- Screen magnifier, narrator, and
working with local retirement communities, visiting in person, and on-screen keyboard.
sharing the library's class offerings for seniors.
 Columbus Public Library (Georgia)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness: Mission: “Service, Passion, Inclusion, and Community are the cornerstones of the
Chattahoochee Valley Libraries (CVL), helping guide us in our vision to improve our
• Strategies Implemented- Offer a variety of technology classes community’s quality of life through reading and discovery.”
including smartphone basics, computer basics and how to set up an
email account. One-on-one sessions are provided to anyone needing
more personalized assistance.
• Effectiveness- The strategies implemented are effective in
addressing digital needs by providing both group and individualized
support.
• Successful Programs- The one-on-one sessions and smartphone
basic classes have been successful in bridging the digital divide for
seniors.

Engagement Tactics: Columbus Public Library | Chattahoochee Valley Libraries (cvlga.org)

• Outreach- Conduct onsite outreach to nursing homes and senior

living facilities to promote digital skills and technology access when
possible. Library classes are designed to be portable and can travel
to these locations.
• Successful Program- Presented library services at an assisted living
facility and signed residents up for a library card. Surveys were
conducted to determine what programs they wanted offered at their
Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Available Technologies- Braille typer, NVDA, digital
magnifier, 2 assistive technology computers equipped with
assistive keyboards and software, GLASS (Georgia Library
for Accessible Services).
 Chapel Hill Public Library (North Carolina)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Provide various classes and one-on-one
sessions on technology usage, collaborate with community Mission: “Sparking Curiosity. Inspiring Learning. Creating Connections.”
organizations, educational institutions, and the local senior center to
provide services.
• Effectiveness- The strategies implemented are effective at enhancing
digital literacy skills among the senior population, have resulted in
increased access to technology for seniors, and have received positive
feedback from participants in classes and programs.
• Successful Programs- Technology classes and one-on-one assistance
are the most popular programs. Drop-in tech sessions and community
workshops are popular.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Conduct outreach to the local senior center, work with the
Town’s Community Connections Department to bring services and About - Chapel Hill Public Library

digital help to citizens in other communities, and partner with UNC

SILS to offer computer basics courses.
Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Successful Program- The partnership with the local Seymour Center,
which serves senior citizens, has been successful in bridging the • Available Technologies- Listening devices and
digital divide. Staff will visit the senior center once a month for a 2- computer screen magnification devices.
hour drop-in tech help session, which allows for personalized one-on-
one assistance. Topics discussed include smartphones, email, maps,
 Staunton Public Library (Virginia)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- A reference librarian is always available Mission: “Acquire, organize, and provide access and guidance to a wide variety
of information and materials which help to fulfill the intellectual, educational,
for basic troubleshooting and assistance. Offer a ‘Book a social and recreational needs of all the people in the city.”
Librarian’ service, which is an appointment for 30 minutes of Tech
instruction. Tech classes are offered regularly.
• Effectiveness- One-on-one classes have been effective. Patrons
build digital skills, practice what they learn, and ask questions.
• Successful Programs- A grant from PLA/AT&T provided funding
for Chromebooks, which were used to teach 30+ local seniors
digital skills. At the end of the program, the seniors were able to
take the Chromebooks home for free.
• Digital Resources- Digital Learn, GCF Learn Free, Khan
Academy, The Typing Cat, Northstar Digital Literacy
Engagement Tactics: Staunton Public Library - Visit Staunton

• Outreach- Library staff visit local senior health fairs to advertise

services, including Book a Librarian and tech assistance. Assistive Technology Implementation:

• Successful Program- A partnership with the Valley Program for
Aging services, which is where a librarian visits the senior café on
a regular basis to assist with tech questions and to teach digital
skills classes, has been successful.
• Available Technologies- Hearing Loops, large print
keyboards and screen magnifiers. The “Talking
Books Center” is for individuals who are blind or
vision impaired.
 Region: Midwest
• Illinois – Elmhurst Public Library
– https://elmhurstpubliclibrary.org/

• Indiana – Indianapolis Public Library-Central

– https://www.indypl.org/

• Michigan – Rochester Hills Public Library

– https://rhpl.org/

• Ohio – Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library

– https://chpl.org/
 Elmhurst Public Library (Illinois)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Computer classes, one-on-one technology
assistance, circulation of Wi-Fi hotspots for those without internet Mission: “We facilitate the sharing of knowledge among people of all ages for the
purpose of enriching lives and building community.”
access, outreach to long-term care facilities.
• Effectiveness- Computer classes and one-on-one assistance have been
effective in addressing the specific needs of seniors. Wi-Fi hotspot
circulation has helped bridge the gap for residents without internet
access.
• Successful Programs- Tech classes, one-on-one assistance, and
handouts bridge the digital divide for seniors, promoting enhanced
digital literacy and confidence.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Establish relationships with long-term care facilities, Elmhurst Public Library -Google Maps
deliver library materials, and offer over-the-phone and on-site
technology assistance. Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Successful Program- Memory care programming, combined with • Available Technologies- CCTV digital magnifier, handheld
over-the-phone and on-site technology assistance, enhances cognitive magnifier, ScanEZ station, assistive listening system,
stimulation and social interaction for seniors. CapTel phones. Offer a “Caregivers Corner” collection for
those with cognitive impairments.
 Indianapolis Public Library-Central (Indiana)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Tech training workshops, drop-in support, and Mission: “The Indianapolis Public Library enriches everyone and
partnerships with local organizations. strengthens communities by inspiring lifelong learning.”

• Effectiveness- Tech training workshops and drop-in support are

essential for ensuring that patrons receive valuable assistance and gain
relevant skills to navigate the digital landscape.
• Successful Programs- Senior Tech Academy offers a 4-week program
where seniors borrow Chromebooks for practice between lessons.
Completion prepares seniors to pass NorthStar's assessments and earn
certificates.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning, Northstar Digital Literacy
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Public bookmobile visits senior centers and nursing homes Indianapolis Public Library- Roadtrippers
to provide library services.
• Successful Program- New programs like Senior Pop-Up Library and Assistive Technology Implementation:
Senior Tech Outreach bring materials and classes directly to • Available Technologies- Accessible workstations
communities. equipped with adjustable magnification, large-key
keyboards, text reading, and live transcription
apps
 Rochester Hills Public Library (Michigan)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
Mission: “Empower people to explore and create with resources that enlighten,
• Strategies Implemented- Small tech help classes (hoopla, Libby, educate, entertain, and inform.”

etc.), one-on-one assistance by teen volunteers, and staff tech help

for seniors.
• Effectiveness- Programs fill up fast and are always well attended.
These programs help bridge the digital divide for seniors.
• Successful Programs- The one-on-one tech help with teens has
always been a successful program/service. This is a monthly
program called “Tech Help for Seniors”.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Library staff travel to senior facilities and assist seniors in
using digital devices.
Rochester Hills Public Library | Michigan
• Successful Program- The digital services librarian and the mini-
branch coordinator travel to senior facilities to assist seniors with
using their digital devices and accessing library services. Devices Assistive Technology Implementation:
include cell phones, tablets and laptops. Topics include eBooks, • Available Technologies- JAWS screen reader, optelec
audiobooks, email, text messages, and search engine basics.
screen reader, large print keyboards, magnifiers, voice
amplifier, and accessible website features (AccessiBe).
 Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library (Ohio)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Provide tech help programming at
Mission: “Connecting people with the world of ideas and information.”
nursing and independent senior facilities, loan out iPads to
seniors, and develop relationships with activity directors and
social workers to identify specific needs.
• Effectiveness- These strategies have proven effective in
enhancing digital literacy among seniors and increase their
access to technology.
• Successful Programs- Tech Drop-In sessions for individual
assistance with computers, tablets, or smartphones are popular.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning, Northstar Digital
Literacy, O’Reilly, Treehouse Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County • FamilySearch

Engagement Tactics:
Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Outreach-The library engages senior citizens through outreach
• Available Technologies- In 2023, the library partnered with
efforts including over-the-phone assistance, mailing out step-
the Council of Aging to host a VR event for seniors and
by-step guides, and arranging individual appointments as caregivers. Participants experienced VR headsets
needed programmed with life skills simulations. ZoomText, SARA,
• Successful Program- In February, outreach staff visited the St. and VictorReader are available.
Theresa Village for a tech help event. Staff answered questions
 Region: Southwest
• Arizona – Cottonwood Public Library
– https://www.ctwpl.info/

• New Mexico – Alamogordo Public Library

– https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/815/Alamogordo-Public-Library

• Oklahoma – Stillwater Public Library

– https://stillwaterok.gov/168/Library

• Texas – Austin Public Library

– https://library.austintexas.gov/
 Cottonwood Public Library (Arizona)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Partnerships with community
Mission: "The Cottonwood Public Library serves as a cultural, recreational, educational, and
organizations, Tech Time, technology resources, and partnering research resource for residents of Cottonwood and Yavapai County. We maintain a diverse
with Arizona’s Digital Navigators Program. collection of print and non-print materials and strive to fulfill requests for materials not
readily available on-site."
• Effectiveness- Bridging the digital divide encompasses various
programs and resources aimed at strengthening the community's
technology skills.
• Successful Programs-Tech Time stands out as one of the most
popular programs, offering personalized assistance to patrons with
tech concerns ranging from basic software usage to more complex
tasks.
• Digital Resources: Arizona’s Digital Navigators

Engagement Tactics: Cottonwood Public Library Google Maps

• Outreach- Currently in the process of collaborating with the city’s Assistive Technology Implementation:
Rec Center to feature the library’s programming in their magazine, • Available Technologies- Scanners, computers, hotspots,
aiming to reach diverse audiences, particularly seniors. and Playaway books.
• Successful Program- Main outreach initiative occurs in
September, Library Card Sign-Up Month, where staff actively
participate in community events to promote resources, especially
 Alamogordo Public Library (New Mexico)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
“The Alamogordo Public Library provides educational,
• Strategies Implemented- Provide access to technology, offer digital informational, and recreational resources.”
resources, and organize educational programs.
• Effectiveness- Providing customized assistance with technology
devices and challenges has proven to be effective.
• Successful Programs- One-on-one computer assistance has been
popular among seniors. This program is offered twice a week and
provides technology and device help.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach-The library actively engages with the community primarily
through its Homebound Delivery Service. This service provides free
delivery of library books and materials to homebound individuals, Alamogordo Public Library New Mexico

ensuring accessibility to library resources.

• Successful Program- No specific program was mentioned.
Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Available Technologies- JAWS screen reader,
Prodigi Desktop Magnifier, Scribe Mini
Duplication system, Video relay service, and
portable Playaway devices.
 Stillwater Public Library (Oklahoma)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Tailored resources and interactive online Mission: “Empowering and connecting Stillwater through
platforms designed for seniors' learning needs. Additionally, information, learning, and technology.”
personalized tutoring sessions and regular workshops cover essential
topics like internet navigation and basic computer skills.
• Effectiveness- Personalized support through one-on-one tutoring
sessions and workshops enhances seniors' proficiency in digital
literacy.
• Successful Programs- Digital literacy workshops teach seniors
essential skills in email, computers, the internet, mobile devices, and
cybersecurity.
• Digital Resources- Digital Learn & GCF Global Learn Free
Engagement Tactics:
Stillwater Public Library Oklahoma - Google Search
• Outreach-Outreach efforts involve targeted initiatives to connect with
underserved communities, leveraging partnerships and mobile library Assistive Technology Implementation:
services.
• Available Technologies- Screen readers, and a
• Successful Program- The library's successful "pop-up" libraries and PA system & equipment for the hearing
programming initiative has effectively extended services to diverse impaired.
communities within Stillwater. No specific program targeting seniors
to bridge the digital divide is mentioned.
 Austin Public Library (Texas)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- Book a Librarian service (30-minute sessions),
Tech Time Programs, and a digital makerspace APL Innovate. Mission: “Inspiring all to discover, learn, and create.”

• Effectiveness- Drop-in support and one-on-one assistance are beneficial

as they cater to different preferences and needs of seniors seeking help
with digital skills. Both approaches contribute to bridging the digital
divide.
• Successful Programs- Tech Time Programs and the Book a Librarian
service are effective for teaching seniors’ basic computer skills and
bridging the digital divide. While Book a Librarian offers scheduled
one-on-one assistance, Tech Time provides drop-in support, offering
flexibility for seniors seeking assistance.
• Digital Resources- Digital Learn, GCF Learn Free, TechBoomers
https://austin.culturemap.com/news/city-life/11-15-17-austins-new-central-library-history/
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Provide outreach services, including visits to senior living Assistive Technology Implementation:
centers and other community spaces.
• Available Technologies- JAWS screen reader,
• Successful Program-Tech Time sessions conducted at senior living
Windows screen magnifier, large print
centers, providing hands-on support and training to seniors in their own
keyboards.
communities.
 Region: West
• California – Los Angeles Central Library
– Central Library | Los Angeles Public Library (lapl.org)

• Colorado – Boulder Public Library

– https://boulderlibrary.org/locations/main/

• Oregon – Hillsboro Brookwood Public Library (Washington County)

– https://www.wccls.org/

• Washington – Puyallup Public Library

– https://cityofpuyallup.org/2044/Library
 Los Angeles Central Library (California)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- The library supports seniors’ digital literacy Mission: “The Los Angeles Public Library provides free and easy access to
information, ideas, books and technology that enrich, educate and empower every
needs with programs, online resources and tailored events including individual in our city's diverse communities.”
technology workshops and social media training sessions.
• Effectiveness- Tailored programs and online resources have allowed
seniors to acquire new skills and stay updated with digital trends.
• Successful Programs-"Tech Tuesdays," offering bi-weekly sessions
covering diverse computer skills and tech topics for seniors &"Drop-in
Tech Help," providing personalized assistance with devices and library
apps.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning, Digital Learn, Gale
Engagement Tactics: https://www.lapl.org/branches/central-library

• Outreach- Partner with various organizations to address community

needs. Currently launching a five-week computer class for seniors at a
Assistive Technology Implementation:
housing project to teach basic internet skills. Provide computer bundles
for checkout, ensuring patrons have the tools they need to succeed. • Available Technologies- ZoomText, TV
magnifiers, Video Remote Interpreting Services
• Successful Program- A comprehensive 15-week workshop provided
(VRI)
instruction in email, internet browsing, budgeting with spreadsheets, and
basic graphic design.
 Boulder Public Library (Colorado)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness: Mission: “Connecting people, ideas, and information to transform lives and strengthen
our community.”
• Strategies Implemented- Drop-in tech help sessions, quarterly classes
at the senior center, Digital Navigator program and a planned addition
of ‘Book a Librarian’ service for one-on-one help
• Effectiveness- Seniors in the community prefer to work one-on-one
with staff or volunteers. The Digital Navigator program is popular, and
most appointments are with seniors.
• Successful Programs- ‘Bridging Digital Divides’ is an 8-week course
that walks seniors through computer basics and online safety.
• Digital Resources- Digital Learn, GCF Global, and TechBoomers.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Homebound delivery of materials to nursing homes and
other homebound residents. Tech assistance is provided at the request
of the patron. Main Library - Boulder Public Library District (boulderlibrary.org)

• Successful Program- Quarterly sessions at the senior center, which is

geared towards helping seniors access digital resources including
Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy. Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Available Technologies- Screen reader, braille
keyboards and screen magnifiers.
Hillsboro Brookwood Public Library (Oregon)
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
• Strategies Implemented- The library offers digital resources, hands-on
Mission: “For Everyone | Para Todos”
training, and personalized assistance, along with a technology lending
program for Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots.
• Effectiveness- The technology lending program and one-on-one
assistance have been effective for bridging the digital divide.
• Successful Programs- “Tech Help” provides one-on-one assistance with
tech devices and “1-on-1 Tech Help” teaches basic computer skills.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning, GCF Learn Free, Digital Learn
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Engage with diverse communities and increase awareness of
the library's resources and services,
• Successful Program- The library conducts community outreach via its https://libraryfoundationhillsboro.org/

"Library on the Loose" program, visiting various city locations to

provide library services and resources.
Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Available Technologies- Accessible workstations,
high-contrast keyboards, ZoomText, Chromebooks,
and Wi-Fi hotspots.
 Puyallup Public Library (Washington)

Digital Needs and Effectiveness: Mission: “The Puyallup Public Library creates an open environment that
brings the power of information, literacy, imagination and inspiration to
• Strategies Implemented- Offer tailored resources, personalized all the people of our community.”
assistance, and monthly classes to help seniors with technology.
• Effectiveness- The ‘Book a Librarian’ service has been effective in
providing personalized assistance to seniors, which allows staff to
address their individual needs.
• Successful Programs- The program “Basic Computer Class” is offered
monthly and allows staff to assist anyone learning basic computer
skills.
• Digital Resources- LinkedIn Learning
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- Provide services to individuals who are homebound, as well
as those residing in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and https://www.puyallup.com/puyallup-public-library/

retirement facilities. This outreach effort ensures that library resources

are accessible to all members of the community. Assistive Technology Implementation:
• Successful Program- No specific program was mentioned. • Available Technologies- JAWS screen
reader and magnifiers.
 My Local Library (Indiana)

• Indiana - Greensburg-Decatur County Public Library

– https://www.greensburglibrary.org/
 Greensburg-Decatur County Public Library
Digital Needs and Effectiveness:
Mission: “The Greensburg-Decatur County Public Library is committed to serving the
• Strategies Implemented- The library supports seniors' digital literacy public by providing for the lifelong informational, educational, recreational and cultural
needs of the community.”
needs by providing resources and one-on-one assistance with basic
computer skills, internet safety, and device navigation.
• Effectiveness- The one-on-one individualized approach ensures that
seniors receive targeted support, leading to a more effective learning
experience.
• Successful Programs- The Book a Librarian service appears to be
successful in providing personalized digital literacy support.
Engagement Tactics:
• Outreach- The Bookmobile is committed to extending library services https://www.greensburglibrary.org/about-gpl/locations

beyond the walls of the main library building, reaching residents in

various communities throughout Decatur County.
• Successful Program-Actively engaging with senior communities such Assistive Technology Implementation:
as Crown Pointe, Morning Breeze, and the Willows to understand their • Available Technologies- There are currently
specific needs and preferences regarding library services has been no assistive technologies available at this
successful. library
 Summary
• Libraries across the United States address the digital needs of senior citizens through various strategies including one-
on-one assistance, tech classes and workshops, digital resources, and community outreach initiatives. Based on my
research, the most effective strategy in bridging the digital divide for senior citizens appears to be one-on-one
assistance. This approach allows for personalized support and guidance, addressing the needs of each individual.
• Libraries employ various methods to engage senior citizens, including those in nursing homes and assisted living
facilities through on-site visits, mobile services, partnerships, and personalized outreach and assistance. These
approaches effectively promote digital skills and technology access for senior citizens, including those in nursing
homes and assisted living facilities. Libraries directly offer personalized assistance to help seniors overcome digital
literacy barriers.
• Libraries implement various assistive technologies to enhance accessibility for senior citizens including screen readers
and magnifiers, adaptive keyboards and devices, assistive listening devices, and accessible workstations. Assistive
technologies play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide for senior citizens by overcoming hurdles to accessing
library resources and services. With adaptable tools and devices, libraries can meet the diverse needs of patrons and
empower seniors to engage with technology and effectively utilize digital content.
I also have additional resources available including an
Infographic on Assistive Technology Implementation and a
Resource Guide for Bridging the Digital Divide for Seniors

For more information about this project, please visit the website
https://seniordigitaldivide.my.canva.site/

Disclaimer:
Some information included in this presentation was obtained through interviews with library
staff members. No names or identifiers have been included to ensure confidentiality and privacy.
Their insights contributed to the overall understanding of the strategies and initiatives employed
by libraries across the United States in addressing the digital needs of senior citizens.