Northumberland Libraries are at the forefront of a new programme to help boost digital skills, it has been revealed.
The project aims to increase confidence in digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
It is being delivered in partnership with Libraries Connected, the national membership body for public libraries, alongside the Good Things Foundation and WSA Community.
Councillor Wendy Pattison, Northumberland County Council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure, and tourism, said: "Digital services and AI are now part of our everyday lives and there are both great opportunities and great risks associated with this, especially for the most vulnerable in our communities.
"For older people, low-income families, or those with disabilities, the fast pace of digital change can be especially daunting and may even make them fearful of using technology.
"Boosting confidence in recognising and using AI and other digital tools will not only keep people safer online, but will help them access services that can make their lives easier or support them to stay socially connected."
Funded by the Government’s Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, the project will run until March 2026 and is taking place across 121 libraries in four areas of the UK, including Northumberland.
The scheme will focus on building a practical guide for supporting digital inclusion, with particular emphasis on AI, misinformation, and media literacy.
A total of £310,400 has been granted by the Department for Science, Industry, and Technology (DSIT) to support all four participating library services.
The guide will be co-designed and tested with input from communities, ensuring it meets the needs of those most at risk of digital exclusion.
Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, said: "We’re thrilled to receive a grant from the Digital Inclusion Access Fund, working with our partners Good Things Foundation and WSA Community Consultants.
"Around 8 million people in the UK lack basic digital skills.
"Without targeted action, they will fall further behind as technology – especially AI – moves forward.
"Libraries already help thousands every day to keep in touch, find jobs, save money, and access services online, but the digital world is changing fast.
"This project will give library staff the tools they need to keep pace – and provide important new evidence for what works in tackling digital exclusion among vulnerable groups."
Residents are encouraged to enquire at their library about available support to improve their digital skills.
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