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Broadband, digital literacy and public libraries: the Mill Park story

Greg Rolan, Tom Denison, Christine Mackenzie

Library Hi Tech News

ISSN: 0741-9058

Article publication date: 3 August 2015

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Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to present the results of a research project designed to explore the impact of the establishment and operation of a broadband enabled digital training facility at the Mill Park public library, focusing on the role of public libraries in both engaging and educating local communities and exploring issues related to the provision of training through public libraries, benefits or problems in doing so and the relationship to new and existing services.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes a case study approach, following the development of the training program and changes implemented throughout the first two years of operation.

Findings

The Mill Park Library has successfully met, if not exceeded, the goals of promoting broadband services, up-skilling the community and promoting digital readiness within it local community. Both directly and through partnerships with other organisations and schools, it has not only addressed the needs of community members but also engaged them more fully with the library’s other services.

Practical implications

The paper offers insight into the value of strong community-based networks in supporting the successful design and implementation of information and communication technology (ICT)-related training programs.

Originality/value

The paper offers insight into the value of strong community-based networks in supporting the successful design and implementation of ICT-related training programs.

Keywords

Citation

Rolan, G., Denison, T. and Mackenzie, C. (2015), "Broadband, digital literacy and public libraries: the Mill Park story", Library Hi Tech News, Vol. 32 No. 6, pp. 15-18. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHTN-03-2015-0020

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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