In our digital world, access to the internet is a basic human need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we discovered how many people are still under-connected. Learn how to support the under-connected in this dynamic workshop about how to shatter the Digital Divide. Hear from expert Vikki Katz and Michigan-based library professionals about the difficulties surrounding providing internet access to everyone. Attendees will gain a more complete perspective on the current challenges preventing Michiganders from fast, reliable access to the internet and acquire new strategies for helping those within your service area from real-life examples of programs instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Goal(s)

What are the outcome(s) for participants? What will they take back to the library after the event? 

• Discover who is under-connected–both in Michigan and nationally. 
• Learn how libraries can serve the under-connected through library programs and services. 
• Brainstorm ways your library can address inequities in opportunity and provide internet access even when the library is closed.

Intended Audience

• Adult Services 
• Programming 
• Library Directors 
• Manager/Department Head 
• Library Students 
• Outreach 
• IT 

Speaker

Vikki Katz, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Rutgers School of Communication and Information; Editor, Journal of Children and Media; Associate Editor, AERA Open Co-Author of Learning from Home while Underconnected Report: https://www.newamerica.org/education-policy/reports/learning-at-home-while-underconnected/ 

Chris Rutherford, M.A  
Director of Community Mobilization Strategy 
Michigan College Access Network 
He/Him/His

Katharyn Haas will moderate Q & A