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Weekly News Digest
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March 28, 2013 — In addition to this week's NewsBreaks article and the monthly NewsLink Spotlight, Information Today, Inc. (ITI) offers Weekly News Digests that feature recent product news and company announcements. Watch for additional coverage to appear in the next print issue of Information Today.
CLICK HERE to view more Weekly News Digest items.
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EveryoneOn Launches to Promote Digital Literacy
March 21, 2013 marked the launch of Everyone On—a national campaign to promote the importance of digital literacy skills and increase access to computer and internet training. People are invited to take the EveryoneOn pledge to help at least one person learn how to do something better online. Librarians take that pledge every day, and that’s why public libraries have been partnering with Connect2Compete to make sure people know where to find resources in their communities.Often those resources are at public libraries. According to the most recent library technology report from the American Library Association (ALA), nearly every one of the 16,400-plus public library buildings in America offers free access to computers and the internet; 44% of public libraries offer formal digital literacy courses; and one-third of public libraries (34.8%) invite patrons to schedule one-on-one appointments with a librarian to get coaching on digital access. Even at libraries without formal classes, a librarian is usually ready to help people access a computer and the internet. Patrons can also get online assistance through DigitalLearn.org, a new site developed by ALA. People go to the library to use computers. According to a recent report on Library Services in the Digital Age from the Pew Internet & American Life Project, 91% of Americans believe that libraries are important to their community. Survey respondents marked access to technology on par with research assistance and borrowing books—three-quarters of Americans (77%-80%) say these services are very important. One in four Americans went to the library last year to use a computer and the internet. But more important than the numbers are the people. One Colorado resident found resources at his library to learn computer skills and apply for job, students in Cuyahoga County connect with friends and mentors and get homework help, and seniors in Houston are learning that “at least they can’t break it” and that the internet opens access to a world of exploration. Users can call 855-EVRY1ON or visit everyoneon.org to access a ZIP code search tool to find free computer and internet training classes in their areas. The website also includes information on computer basics, job searches, accessing government resources, and how to connect with friends and family. Source: Connect2Compete
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Brandi Scardilli
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