Grant provides digital literacy access across the region

Over the past year, DRIVE partnered with the Bloomsburg Public Library and other libraries throughout the region to address a critical need: improving digital literacy. Residents in Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union counties registered for computer classes and one-on-one support to learn new skills and gain confidence in the digital world.

With a $125,000 grant from the 1994 Charles B. Degenstein Foundation., DRIVE launched the Atlas Digital Navigator Program to help improve digital literacy across the region. The program covers a range of computer-related topics, and the funding was used to support teaching equipment, library fees, and the salary of Digital Literacy Educator Delia Rincón.

“We all had a first time using a computer,” says Rincón. “Most computers don’t come with a printed manual anymore, and the instructions for how to use the device are online. Without this program, people have to figure out how the computers work on their own.”

The Program Supported Learners of All Ages and Abilities 

Rincón helped students of all backgrounds develop skills they can use long after they leave her classroom. She has helped people as young as 17 and older than 90. The Atlas Digital Navigator Program was divided into five sessions. The first session covered the most basic elements of computer usage, including concepts like the keyboard and the mouse. As students completed each module, they learned more advanced skills like how to use different types of software, how to use the internet, and how to avoid fraud and scams.

“I’ve taught students who were very insecure handling computers, but after they complete the program, I see them handling computers at the library,” says Rincón. “Seeing them empowered to use the devices and taking the next steps to do things by themselves is so rewarding.”

The Atlas Digital Navigator Program wasn’t just for people who were new to computers. These sessions also supported people with knowledge gaps about specific tools. Rincón recently taught a data analyst how to use Google products because they had only ever used the Microsoft Suite. The analyst needed to know how to use tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for work.  

Classes Were Offered in Five Counties With Spanish Translations 

Rincón graduated from the Universidad de Montemorelos in Mexico and recently moved to Central Pennsylvania from Philadelphia. In her classes, she offered guidance in English and Spanish, empowering students to ask questions in the language they were most confident using, making the learning process less intimidating.

“They feel more comfortable knowing that the person teaching them can communicate in their own language,” says Rincón.

To maximize accessibility, the classes were offered across five library systems. Rincón traveled from one library to the next, supporting Central Pennsylvania residents. Here are the libraries that participated in the Atlas Digital Navigator Program:  

• Bloomsburg Public Library
• Degenstein Community Library
• Milton Public Library
• Thomas Beaver Free Library
• Snyder County Libraries

“This program was designed specifically to meet the capacity issue at our local libraries,” said Jennifer Wakeman, Executive Director of DRIVE. “Having dedicated staff to provide these much needed services addressed that issue. Being able to speak to people in both English and Spanish was the cherry on top.” 

These Classes Make Central Pennsylvania Stronger

DRIVE advocated for the Atlas Digital Navigator Program because it identified a significant digital literacy gap in the region. Since libraries are on the front lines in providing digital education, DRIVE collaborated with them to develop the programming. Modern computer skills are a necessity to participate in today’s economy.

“We live in an age where everything is going toward digitalization,” says Rincón. “Everything from medical files to banking and shopping is done online.”

Rincón says many people think they are stupid because they cannot use a computer, but that’s not true. This is a skill that can be taught and built on, no matter your age or education level. Rincón has worked with many people who have devices but don’t know how to use them. Their kids or grandchildren buy them a smartphone, for example, but they only use it to make calls.  

Rincón’s passion for her work is palpable. You can feel how excited she is to improve digital literacy in the region and help her community.

“Teaching is what I love to do, so I feel like I haven’t worked a day this year,”  she says.

Discover Other Initiatives by DRIVE

DRIVE is actively involved in several parts of the Central Pennsylvania economy. From supporting entrepreneurs to sharing business resources and giving commercial properties new life, DRIVE helps companies of all sizes and the people who work for them. By taking a multifaceted approach to economic development, DRIVE ensures Central Pennsylvania grows together with sustainable practices that support all communities.