Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library increases digital literacy & employment readiness

The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library Foundation recently received a $78,470 Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) grant to increase digital literacy in Shawnee County. The Level Up Shawnee County program will address the multifaceted nature of digital literacy by focusing on three key components – physical navigation of technology, collaborative engagement and employment readiness. The program, which will be run by the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, aims to empower individuals and bridge the digital divide within Shawnee County.

Level Up Shawnee County will bring technology directly to community centers and partner locations to eliminate transportation barriers and allow participants to learn in familiar settings. Each participant will have personalized instruction from technical trainers and access to a laptop to use during hands-on learning.

"The program recognizes the importance of connecting and working with others in the digital world," said Library CEO Marie Pyko. "We will use paid interns as technical trainers to expand the library’s reach and provide high school and college students real-world experience. These trainers will act as mentors and facilitators, fostering connections between participants and valuable online resources."

Level Up Shawnee County is centered around creating employment opportunities by enhancing individual digital literacy and skills. The program will equip participants with the necessary knowledge and confidence to navigate the online job market.

"While the program prioritizes employment-related digital skills, the learning imparted will inevitably have a broader impact," said Library Foundation Executive Director Ashley Charest. "The enhanced digital literacy gained by participants will empower them to access vital resources, connect with communities and embrace lifelong learning."

This project is supported by the City of Topeka, Go Topeka, HCCI, IBSA Inc., Shawnee County Parks and Recreation, Topeka Housing Authority and Topeka Public Schools/TCALC.

The Library Foundation is one of 15 organizations receiving a DOCK grant to improve the digital skills of Kansans who have not yet been able to fully capitalize on the power of the internet. The Library Foundation is a non-profit 501c3 that helps the library build its collection and resources, offer programs for patrons of all ages and better serve the needs of our community.