Residents are being encouraged to get support in navigating the online world as libraries in North Yorkshire host free events and activities during Get Online Week.
Running from Monday next week (October 19) until Sunday 25th October, the national initiative aims to raise awareness of digital inclusion, helping people build the skills and confidence they need to make the most of online resources.
More than 20 of the county’s libraries are hosting Appy Day on Friday, October 23, where staff and volunteers will help residents discover how to use the North Yorkshire Library App.
Through the app, customers can renew and reserve books, manage linked family accounts, receive alerts when reservations are ready, search the catalogue and scan the barcode of a book to see whether it is available.
It provides access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, newspapers and magazines, as well as practical services such as computer booking and printing.
The important role of dedicated volunteer IT buddies will be highlighted, who provide help to anyone looking to improve their digital skills so they can complete essential tasks themselves.
The library service is also working alongside the North Yorkshire Police Cybercrime Unit and Yorkshire Building Society by holding drop-in sessions to raise awareness of scams.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for culture and arts, Cllr Simon Myers, whose responsibilities include libraries, said:
“Every day, staff and volunteers support residents to access essential services online such as booking a doctor’s appointment, paying bills and applying for jobs, so they can do so themselves in future.
“Get Online Week is a great opportunity to shine a light on the great work that already takes place in libraries.
“We want to be a welcoming place where people can be shown how to navigate the online world, whether they are new to technology or want to expand on their knowledge.
“I would encourage as many people as possible to see what events are happening at their local branch and make use of the support on offer.”
For contact details of your local library, visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/local-libraries
As part of Get Online Week, residents and businesses are being encouraged to support digital inclusion by donating unwanted devices to the council’s recycling project, Reboot North Yorkshire.
Last year, the programme recycled and distributed about 900 devices to people who could not access equipment to get online, in collaboration with community organisations.
Devices can be donated at any library. For more information, email rebootNY@northyorks.gov.uk or visit www.rebootny.co.uk
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