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LIBRARY DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY GRANTS
LIBRARY DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY GRANTS
Connectivity devices and digital literacy for broadband support
Connectivity devices and digital literacy for broadband support
The Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) received a $4.98 million Capital Projects Fund grant through the Georgia Technology Authority, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, to support device replacement and digital literacy initiatives in public libraries. The grant provides funding for administrative costs, including a temporary grants coordinator, marketing and promotional materials, and on-demand training resources for library staff and patrons.
This project will expand digital learning opportunities by developing and launching AI training modules through an online platform. A train-the-trainer program for library staff will be created, incorporating existing educational content into both pathways. The initiative will also introduce an AI-powered chatbot to enhance user support and provide a streamlined process for library staff and patrons to request new or additional training topics. Library staff will receive training on the platform and its new offerings, ensuring they are equipped to support and promote AI literacy within their communities.
Overview
Overview
The Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) serves as the statewide agency connecting Georgia’s 60 public library systems to the Library Digital Connectivity Grant program. This webpage provides library staff with a centralized resource for accessing available digital literacy training materials, learning about training opportunities, and finding guidance on how to effectively use these resources to support their communities. Whether you are new to the program or looking to expand your digital skills offerings, this site is designed to help you make the most of the tools and training available through the grant.
Digital Literacy Training Resources
Digital Literacy Training Resources
GPLS Learning Center: On-demand pathways providing access to a wide range of courses and training options with diverse approaches to building digital literacy skills. These resources support learners with flexible, engaging learning experiences tailored to different interests, skill levels, and goals.
Library 2.0 : Practical, easy-to-follow courses that help you understand and confidently use Artificial Intelligence (AI) while applying cybersecurity best practices. Designed to build foundational knowledge and strengthen digital skills, these resources empower library staff to safely adopt AI tools, protect digital assets, and navigate the evolving technology landscape with confidence.
Additional Resources: To access these resources, click on the title for each one.
Additional Resources: To access these resources, click on the title for each one.
Georgia Library Service: Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled is a free braille and talking book library service for individuals who are blind or whose physical abilities require the use of books and magazines in audio, braille or other adapted formats.
"Grow with Google": Georgia public library cardholders have free access to Google Career Certificates and the Google AI Professional Certificate. These flexible, online courses help learners build in-demand skills in high-growth fields, supporting career advancement, workforce development, and business success.
RECOMMENDED LEARNING PATHWAYS
Here are four recommended learning pathways to begin your digital literacy journey. Click on the title for each pathway to begin. A Niche Academy user account is required. If you do not have a user account, please sign up here.
Check Out Our Digital Skills AI Training Development Assistants
Check Out Our Digital Skills AI Training Development Assistants
Here's how to determine which digital skills assistant to use: The primary distinction in the digital skills assistants offered through the Georgia Public Library Service lies in the user's ecosystem and integration. The Google Gemini digital skills assistant is tailored for library staff and organizations integrated into the Google Workspace ecosystem. It leverages native Gemini capabilities to streamline productivity directly alongside tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Drive, making it ideal for staff who conduct day-to-day operations and patron support within Google's cloud environment.
Here's how to determine which digital skills assistant to use: The primary distinction in the digital skills assistants offered through the Georgia Public Library Service lies in the user's ecosystem and integration. The Google Gemini digital skills assistant is tailored for library staff and organizations integrated into the Google Workspace ecosystem. It leverages native Gemini capabilities to streamline productivity directly alongside tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Drive, making it ideal for staff who conduct day-to-day operations and patron support within Google's cloud environment.
Conversely, the Open Source digital skills assistant serves as the accessible, standalone alternative for non-Google Workspace users. Hosted on Open WebUI, this interface provides dedicated model personas—such as specialized assistants for end-user digital skills, trainer support for lesson planning, and accessibility tools like alt-text generation—without requiring a Google account structure. This setup ensures that regardless of an individual library system's software infrastructure, all staff can access tailored AI assistance for digital literacy training and patron outreach.
Conversely, the Open Source digital skills assistant serves as the accessible, standalone alternative for non-Google Workspace users. Hosted on Open WebUI, this interface provides dedicated model personas—such as specialized assistants for end-user digital skills, trainer support for lesson planning, and accessibility tools like alt-text generation—without requiring a Google account structure. This setup ensures that regardless of an individual library system's software infrastructure, all staff can access tailored AI assistance for digital literacy training and patron outreach.
Click on the option below that matches your library's technology ecosystem.
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