Wednesday November 27th 2024
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Luke Jackson
Midlothian Libraries have been awarded £15,000 from the national Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) for an innovative new project to help local people improve their digital skills.
Digital Learning Stations will be installed in each library, equipped with tablets, notebooks, or laptops pre-loaded with interactive tutorials and courses on essential digital skills such as basic computer use and internet safety.
The stations are designed to be user-friendly and accessible to individuals with varying skill levels, making sure customers can learn at their own pace and in their own time.
Take-home kits will also be available for loan. Each kit will include step-by-step guides, flash drives with resources, and practice worksheets.
Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, Councillor Ellen Scott said:
“I think this is a fantastic, inclusive initiative that combines in-library and home-based learning so that people can progress at their own pace.
“Nowadays, there’s an expectation that you should be able to do just about everything online – from applying for a job to booking an appointment. It’s daunting if you don’t have those skills – you feel left out and left behind.
“This project gives people the confidence and support they need to learn new digital skills that could potentially change their lives by introducing them to new ways to connect with others and access services, helping to tackle digital exclusion in our communities.”
The project is one of 13 across Scotland to be awarded a share of the PLIF.
The Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) is an annual £450,000 administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council on behalf of the Scottish Government that sees £200,000 given to support creative, sustainable and innovative public library projects throughout Scotland.
The PLIF 24/25 grant, launched in August this year, prioritised applications aimed at strengthening digital inclusion and sustainability efforts, as well as Gaelic and Scots language and new Scots languages initiatives.
Alison Nolan, Chief Executive of (SLIC), said: “Public libraries offer truly diverse value to their communities. They provide access to vital services and resources, a wealth of social activities and are hubs for expression and creativity.
“Investment is so important for the continued provision of these services, and the Public Library Improvement Fund is one of the ways in which we bolster our public libraries.
“People, place and partnership are the pillars of our strategy for Scotland’s libraries, and this year’s winners captured the spirit of that vision. These thirteen projects expand on the vision of a library as solely a centre of literacy – they encourage civil engagement, expand people’s skillsets and celebrate the richness of local heritage.”
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