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Area Library ( GHAL ) teamed up to obtain a nearly $ 40,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry to advance future Science , Technology , Engineering and Mathematics careers in industry through digital literacy and early exposure to technology . What does that mean exactly ? The American Library Association defines digital literacy as “ the ability to use information and communication technologies to find , evaluate , create and communicate information , requiring both cognitive and technical skills .”
In other words , individuals must be able to : identify reliable sources ; separate fact from opinion ; recognize and / or put aside bias ; cite points of reference accurately ; utilize safety and privacy measures ; question where and why content was created ; navigate hyperlinks , audio clips , charts and more ; foresee consequences to what is posted and shared ; create , collaborate and share digital content responsibly ; and , finally , the crux of the grant ’ s purpose , apply all of the above to the search for and advancement of future STEM careers .
“ Digital literacy does not just mean you know how to get online , search , download , email or post updates . It ’ s a multifaceted skill that continues to build upon itself to produce a savvy consumer and distributor of online content ,” explains DPL ’ s director , Denni Grassel . “ Our program will take things one step further and include activities to develop a strong STEM foundation in children that ultimately will lead to successful future careers — all right here in Westmoreland County .”
As a go-to source for information , community libraries like DPL and GHAL already are positioned and somewhat equipped to assist patrons in developing these skills ; however , additional materials and a standardized curriculum are needed to ensure that digital literacy reaches a level of expertise that will result in successful applications and career advancement without having to leave the county . That was the motivation behind the decision to pursue the grant .
“ It seemed like a perfect fit ,” said GHAL Director Jamie Falo . “ The Digital Literacy and Workforce Development Grant Program ’ s objectives aligned with our own . We wanted to expand our existing digital literacy programs and databases but needed the extra capital . This grant came at the perfect time , allowing us to partner with Delmont Public Library to design and implement a comprehensive digital literacy program for the youth in our communities that will develop the skills needed to address local workforce challenges .”
Between DPL and GHAL , a number of STEM-based programs for prekindergarteners through teenagers already exist in partnership with a variety of local , regional and state organizations , including the Allegheny Intermediate Unit ’ s Math and Science Collaborative , the Carnegie Science Center , the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair , and the Pennsylvania Office of Commonwealth Libraries .
Additionally , both libraries have always provided basic online and device assistance to patrons of all ages . With no plans to discontinue these services and proven programs , the libraries will expand upon their digital foundations , focusing on digital fundamentals , internet job seeking , and online digital citizenship and navigation , as well as the aforementioned application of STEM development .
In the coming months , DPL and GHAL will be working together to procure equipment , apps , hotspots and other supplies ; implement marketing , recruitment and assessment strategies ; train staff and volunteers ; design a curriculum ; and establish operational procedures .
GHAL is a nonprofit organization founded in 1935 and funded by local , state and federal government resources , grants and generous donations . It provides free programs and services to all Greensburg , Hempfield Township and surrounding area residents on this limited budget . Encourage your local elected officials and organizations to support this valuable community resource . For more detailed information regarding GHAL ’ s operating costs , contact Library Director Jamie Falo . Donations can be made online at ghal . org . n
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