Summary: If your public library would like to be part of a statewide cohort and receive training and funding to enact programs and services related to AI, dis- and misinformation, and civic engagement (especially covered populations), please fill out the interest survey at this link: https://forms.gle/4e3Zo1v2z5VNiyyw6.

Sharing this detailed message below from our friends at Urban Libraries Council to gauge PA library interest in a collaborative project:

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries has tentatively signed on as a partner for a proposed project led by Urban Libraries Council to support public libraries in addressing digital literacy needs related to artificial intelligence, dis- and misinformation, and civic participation in communities. Projects will focus on closing access gaps for covered populations, particularly racial and ethnic minorities, as well as senior citizens and households under 150% of the poverty line, through regional library and community partnerships, and support to identify, develop, and implement best practices.  

 

Below is estimate of the time commitment and expectations that would be involved in the grant for a participating library (note that the funder’s application approvals are on a rolling basis and timing may change slightly):  

 

• Attend a full day training at the start of year 2 of the grant (2026) and wrap-up meeting at the end of year 4 (2028). 
• Complete a minimum of 10 hours per year during years 2-4 (2026-2028) of direct programming designed to reach covered populations addressing the digital inclusion topics outlined above. Libraries will receive funding to complete these programs. 
• Attend monthly state community of practice meetings during years 2-4 of the grant (2026-2028) 
• Complete evaluation activities to assess impact of activities completed during the grant. 

As part of this grant, libraries may also request additional funding to:

• Complete more than 10 hours of programs per year.
• Upgrade equipment or purchase materials that improve outreach to and engagement with covered populations around the identified topics. 
• Upgrade equipment or purchase materials that improve passive programs, reference transactions, or one-on-one service in the library around the identified topics for covered populations. 

Participants will also gain access to a speakers bureau, in which the grant will cover the expenses for libraries to host speakers, facilitators, and trainers on the identified topics at their library. 

 

Please complete the form at https://forms.gle/4e3Zo1v2z5VNiyyw6 to register your organization’s interest in participating in this project by Thursday 9/19/24. 

 

If you have any questions about this opportunity, contact khughes@urbanlibraries.org. Please be sure to include that you are from a Pennsylvania public library in your email. 

Thanks for your consideration of this idea.  Libraries are community anchor institutions.  Help PA make progress on the path toward digital equity. Read and take actions to help fulfill the goals of PA’s Broadband Plan and Digital Equity Plan.